Do Not Be Afraid
The words of Jesus in this Sunday’s Gospel are simple, yet deeply reassuring: “Do not be afraid.” It is a message that appears throughout Scripture because fear is something every one of us experiences. We worry about our families, our health, our work, our future, and sometimes about things completely beyond our control.
The readings this Sunday remind us that faith is not the absence of fear, but trusting God in the midst of it. Jeremiah knew what it was like to feel alone, discouraged, and misunderstood. He faced criticism and opposition from those around him. Yet even in the middle of these struggles, he was able to say, “The Lord is at my side, a mighty hero.” His confidence did not come from his own strength, but from knowing that God was with him.
Likewise, Saint Paul reminds us that while human weakness is part of our story, it is not the end of the story. Through Jesus Christ, God offers us a gift far greater than our failures. His grace outweighs our shortcomings, and His mercy is always available to us. No matter how often we fall, God continues to reach out to us with love.
Jesus then offers one of the most comforting images in the Gospel. He tells us that not even a sparrow falls to the ground without the Father knowing. God sees what is happening in our lives. He knows our struggles, our hopes, our disappointments, and our fears. We are never forgotten. We are precious in His sight.
Life does not always unfold as we expect. Plans change, challenges arise, and at times the future can seem uncertain. Yet today’s readings encourage us not to lose heart. God remains faithful through every season of life. He walks with us in our difficulties, strengthens us when we feel weak, and gently leads us forward.
As we reflect this week, perhaps we can ask ourselves: What am I afraid of? What burden am I carrying? Can I place it into God’s hands and trust that He is walking beside me?
May we hear Jesus’ words anew this week: “Do not be afraid.” And may we find peace in knowing that we are loved, known, and always held in God’s care.
Ajith Nissangaratchie