Don’t be afraid, just return

Fear paralyzes. The mind builds obstacles, impossibilities that, seemingly, can’t be overcome, and the body parks, stays in neutral, does not move. Fear stops any movement from happening. And, fear is one thing we all have in common.

So, why do we fear? I suppose for each one of us there is a different answer, ranging from your job to your kids to college to health to money to all of the fears that constantly flood our ears from the media. The list goes on and on, as our lives are full of places to put our anxiety. It seems as if the cards are stacked against. Fear is inevitable as you journey through life.

As you read about the life of Jesus, from day one, He had enemies. Be it the Pharisees who did not want Him to change their way of life, their traditions, to those that felt He was interfering with their business, He constantly had adversaries. Jesus knew that this would always be the case, and He knew that anyone that followed Him would be in the same boat. If there was anything that could cause His followers to stop spreading His words, it was fear of these enemies.

After recruiting the 12 disciples, Jesus is preparing to send them out into the world on their first trip without Him. His detailed instructions are completely opposite what one would think about and prepare for as they embarked on a journey. The packing list was nonexistent, as Jesus said to only bring the shirt on their back, no change of clothes. And, He told them not to bring any money, no gold or silver or coins. So, no clothing or money.

Then, He told them to prepare for the storm they would face everywhere they go. Jesus said that he was sending them out like “sheep among wolves.” He goes on to tell them that they would be flogged with whips in synagogues and that they would stand trial before governors and kings. Some would even be arrested. The road would be difficult, the journey hard.

At this point, imagine what must have been going through the minds of the disciples as they listened to these instructions. No doubt that they were full of questions, concerns, wondering what could happen. Jesus had not painted the most rosy picture of the journey. The obstacles before them were great and, He would not be with them.

As the leader, Jesus knew the one thing that could hold them back. Fear. He knew the risk of some turning away, shrinking back in fear, refusing to go. Christ knew the mountain that is created in one’s mind when anxiety grabs hold. And, this imaginary mountain has the potential to stop all action. Fear was the elephant in the room that day among the disciples as they looked in each other’s eyes.

Jesus addressed the elephant.

After the detailed instructions, Christ tells the disciples three times, “do not fear.” But, I am sure they needed more. Sure, they would have each other, but they needed some type of assurance that things would be okay. The obstacles that they faced where seemingly insurmountable. They needed an Anchor.

I believe Jesus changed the emotions in the room with four words, “you are valuable to God.” Jesus put it this way.

What is the price of two sparrows—one copper coin? But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows. Matthew 10:29-21

If God was in their midst, on the journey with them, then all fear could be handed to the Creator of the world. They were valued by the Creator of the sparrows, of humanity. Everything changed in the room that day.

The same is trues of us. When one feels valued and loved by another human, the world is bit brighter, there is a bit of hope. But, when the God of the universe values you, the God that controls nature and life itself, the God that is ever-present always on, the hope is magnified, the possibilities and potential grow. You can’t move to a place where He is not. He is with you always, and He values you.

When fear and anxiety rain, when the journey is difficult, when the road is dark and confusing, remember that you are valued, you are loved. God does not want us to shrink back in fear.

Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. 1 Peter 5:7

Place the fear in His hands, and let Him lead, direct, handle the details.

And, if you have felt a bit distant from Him, simply return. He is always with you.

Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends. Revelation 3:20

When fear rains, which it certainly will, remember, He values you, and He is always near.

Do not fear, just return.

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