Wednesday after Epiphany

“Do not be afraid.” A phrase, that all who have faith in God the Father and his son Jesus Christ, should take comfort in. This phrase, or some close version of it, can be found in at least 147 times in both the Old and New Testament. Some Biblical scholars put the number even higher. These same words where uttered by Saint John Paul II the Great at the beginning of his pontificate. So, as I sit writing this reflection, I keep asking myself “why is this written down so repetitively in Scripture?” 

Both readings today clearly state that if we have faith in Christ and believe, we have nothing to fear. So why do I and most people I know need to be reminded of this on a regular basis? For myself, I intellectually know that all things are possible in God.  As a loving God, he only has my best interest at heart. That’s the rub for me.  My idea of what's best often conflicts with God’s. I’ve had my share of Doubting Thomas moments.. I am just praying for the courage to step out and fully put myself in Christ’s hands.