A reading from the gospel according to Luke 12:1-7
1 At that time: So many people were crowding together that they were trampling one another underfoot. Jesus began to speak, first to his disciples,
“Beware of the leaven – that is, the hypocrisy of the Pharisees.
2 “There is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known.
3 Therefore whatever you have said in the darkness will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be proclaimed on the housetops.
4 I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body but after that can do no more.
5 I shall show you whom to fear. Be afraid of the one who after killing has the power to cast into Gehenna; yes, I tell you, be afraid of that one.
6 Are not five sparrows sold for two small coins? Yet not one of them has escaped the notice of God.
7 Even the hairs of your head have all been counted. Do not be afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows.”
Reflection: Do not be afraid.
Good News: You are worth more than many sparrows.
There is nothing in our life that is hidden in the eyes of God. In fact, life is like a movie. Everything is recorded in a film and one day, it will be shown to us in every detail. The question is, will be able to enjoy the film or we shudder because what we see is so revulsive? It really matters to be honest with ourselves and to be true with our thoughts, words and action. If we have no hidden agenda, there is absolutely no need to cover up anything. No need to put on a psychological mask. If only we learn to accept and love ourselves now, there would be nothing to be ashamed or afraid of anything later.
Yet Jesus tells us to be afraid of one thing – that which brings us to eternal damnation. We have to be on guard at all times for the thief can come at an unknown time and robbed us of our happiness and dignity. In addition, let us be glued to God, our creator and our ultimate judge. He alone has the power and control of our life. In Him alone do we commit ourselves because His love for us is everlasting and nothing will ever separate us from His love (Romans 8:8-39).
Fear of God means we endeavor to please Him at all times by our behavior. He is our omniscient God who sees everything and who knows everything about us but He is also our loving Father who dispels our fears. Jesus assured us that we have nothing to be afraid of because we are worth more than birds. We are in truth the children of God who is the source of our strength and our refuge, an ever-present help in time of trouble (Psalm 46:1).
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