How do you respond to the events going on in the world? An economy that is the worst in decades? Nuclear weapons in the hands of the unstable? A cultural war in our own nation? The most natural response is that of fear or worry. We are a nation medicating itself because of our high stress levels.
Many years ago, President Frankin Roosevelt told a nation paralyzed by fear over the Great Depression that the only thing they had to fear, was fear itself. Fear paralyzes us and prevents us from taking the actions needed to address the issues we face. I believe that Jesus is saying to the Church today…the only thing you have to fear is fear itself. Do not be afraid….look to Jesus. God has not abdicated His throne. Nothing has taken Him by surprise. The kingdom is advancing! It is not a time for fear, but courage. May our churches be places where courage is given and fear is banished.