Why are you frightened, and why do doubts arise in your hearts?
Luke 24: 38
Lord I have learned to listen to your questions.
When reading your Holy Word and seeing you poise a query, I pause and ask them of myself.
I allow them to sink under my thick skin and coat my heart.
Why am I frightened? I didn’t even realize I was until you asked. I proudly perform on the world stage with the appearance of confidence and bravery. I deny my underlying fears and sweep them under the doormat of my soul.
Yet when I stop and am honest, Lord, you are right. Those unnamed fears quiver within me, stop me from holy boldness and prevent me from living fully in your joy.
The nameless fears sprout doubt and distraction. Not claiming them allows uncertainly and distrust of you to smolder. My heart burns not with your love, but with anger and frustration.
Once I retrieve those fears – the ones you ask about – and put them into your hands, I am yours once again.
When I am still in your presence, I am calm and peaceful.
Why am I frightened? I am not when I am with you.
Such a beautiful reflection for Sunday, Jean! Blessings!