Do not be frightened! 

(Lk. 21:9)

 

“Do not be afraid!” On Wednesday, those of us not alive in the 1930’s realised afresh why God so often commands: “do not fear”[1]. Fear propelled Trump to the White-House and now the world is, justifiably, very afraid.

 

The greatest command is: “Love the Lord your God with all of your heart, mind and soul and your neighbour as yourself (Lk. 10:27 etc.). Fear is the antithesis of love. That is why xenophobia (fear of foreigners) and homophobia (fear of homosexuals) lead to despicable crimes.

 

Fresh out of “All Saints Day”, all the saints are given renewed purpose –to pursue a life free of fear with all we are worth. Below I’ve picked some verses from the lectionary to help us.

 

Sadly, on Sunday, we meet to say goodbye to Londiwe. Like Joshua she enters into a new, exciting and scary time. We pray that she would hear the frequent, whispered assurance, “Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid” (Jos. 1:9).

 

The wolf and the lamb will feed together (Is. 65:25)

God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid (Is. 12:2)

When you hear of wars and revolutions, do not be frightened (Lk. 21:9)

 

 

 

 

 

 

[1] Apparently this is the most oft repeated command in the bible.