As a follower of Jesus, are you ever afraid? I mean, are you ever afraid of where Jesus is leading you? If you answer yes, you are in good company. We are all afraid. Even his disciples and close followers were afraid. “They were on the way, going up to Jerusalem, and Jesus went ahead of them. They were amazed, and those who followed were afraid” (Mark 10:32).
Have you ever noticed that fear is not on the list of deadly sins? Or that thou shall not fear is not one of the Ten Commandments? There is nothing wrong with being afraid. It is a very real emotion. In fact, it is one of the most basic human emotions.
Jesus knows that there will be times when we are going to be afraid. He knows and understands our human emotions. It is no wonder then, that time after time, he tells us to have no fear. He knows fear will spring up. It does not offend Jesus when we are afraid. We only offend him if we let that fear keep us from loving him, trusting him, believing in him, serving him, or following him.
Lord Jesus, you command us not to fear. In those times and moments when we are afraid, by the power of your word, cast out worries and concerns from our minds and hearts so that we may follow you wherever you lead. Help us to know that being afraid is part of the human condition and that you are with us to protect us and to grant us strength and courage. May we always love, trust, believe, serve, and follow you. Amen.
