Do Not Be Afraid

One of my earliest memories as a child was when I was in kindergarten and waiting on my mom to pick me up from school. I remember being genuinely fearful that she forgot about me and wouldn’t come to pick me up. Deep down I knew she would eventually be there but until I saw her physically there, I would cry.

I thought of that memory today as I read about the disciples on the sea. They waited out there for Jesus, knowing he was coming. But they were still afraid.

“The sea was stirred up because a strong wind was blowing. When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and coming near the boat, and they began to be afraid. But he said to them, “It is I. Do not be afraid.” (John 6:18-20)

Fears

How often are we afraid and let our fears overcome the faith we have in our Lord? We know Jesus is there with us during our trials, tribulations and moments when we are afraid, but still let the fear paralyze us. The opposite of fear is trust. Jesus reminds us time and time again to put our trust in Him.

“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” (Jeremiah 17:7-8)

In what areas of your life can you trust our Lord more? What fears can He cast out?

[Readings: Acts 6:1-7; Jn 6:16-21]

Brett and Taylor Akins

Brett and Taylor Akins both had reversions to the Catholic faith while in their early 20s. The two married in May of 2020 and moved from Oklahoma to Bakersfield, CA. Their passion is teaching the youth about the lives of the Saints, and how we are all called to Sainthood. Brett and Taylor spend their free time hanging out with their huge Catholic family and volunteering as Confirmation teachers. You can email Brett and Taylor at [email protected].

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