The Lodestar

When fear torments us, Christ gently invites us to surrender it to him. I recall a moment when fear gripped my heart—yet in that very instant, I felt the comforting presence of Christ. His question, “Why are you afraid?” is not a request for explanation but a loving rebuke, suggesting that in his presence, nothing in this world should make us tremble.

Fear is a natural and necessary instinct common to all living creatures. Consider the deer grazing in a meadow, which instinctively flees upon sensing a predator—without that fear, it would become prey. Similarly, our innate caution helps us avoid danger, such as avoiding a venomous king cobra in our path—unless we are seasoned enough to handle it.

Yet, while fear is a protective mechanism, excessive or irrational fear can paralyse us. It hinders our abilities—a skilled electrician with acrophobia cannot safely repair high wires, nor can a child with cynophobia enjoy the company of a gentle puppy meant to bring joy.

Excessive fear torments the soul, but faith releases us from its grip. While fear exposes our limitations, trusting in God opens our eyes to possibilities beyond our natural capacity, reminding us that no challenge is beyond His control.

Today, choose to lay your fears at Christ’s feet. Embrace the gift of faith by consciously surrendering your anxieties and stepping forward with the confidence that God's power and love will carry you through. Let this act of trust transform your perspective—turn fear into an opportunity to experience peace and freedom in God's loving embrace.

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