Fight, Flight, or Faith? Philippians 4:4-7 - Day of Pentecost
Of all God’s commandments, the one I find most difficult to obey is this: do not fear. But wait—that’s not one of the Ten Commandments, and that’s technically true. However, others in the Old Testament, God speaks these two statements more than any others: “ I am the Lord ” and “ Do not be afraid .” Think about how many commandments are broken due to fear: fear of failure, fear of rejection, fear of missing out, fear of suffering and death… Telling someone not to be afraid is like telling someone you can avoid getting Covid by not breathing. Fear is an inevitable part of human experience. Jesus was afraid of his crucifixion. I’m sure he was afraid during his forty days in the dessert. Fear was always present, just as it is with you and me. What counts is what you do with that fear… The words of Paul in today’s second reading from Philippians are among the most beautiful in all of Scripture, describe the faith response to fear: Rejoice, for the Lord is near! Be kind ...
