Jeremiah 20:10-13
Romans 5:12-15
Matthew 10:26-33

Do Not Be Afraid

In the first reading for this Sunday, the prophet Jeremiah is attacted by those who were his so-called friends. In spite of this, he believes that God is with and cares for those in painful or difficult situations. In last week’s gospel Jesus sends out his disciples to continue his mission. In this Sunday’s gospel Jesus tells his disciples that they will face trials and even death as they further his mission. He also warns them that what is worse than physical pain and death is what kills the soul. 

Jesus then goes on to tell them how important and precious they are to him when he reminds them that, ^“Are not two sparrows sold for a small coin? Yet not one of them falls to the ground without your Father’s knowledge. Even all the hairs of your head are counted. So do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” 

When Matthew’s gospel was written, the community of believers were already suffering persecution for following Jesus’ Way. Matthew is telling his community that God cares for them in spite of what they are going through. God is with them because they are dear to his heart.

We know that in our own time in history that persecution and suffering can’t be avoided or prevented. Just as Jesus reassures his disciples that God knows and cares about what happens to them, so too, our loving God cares for the difficulties we face now.

We might not face the same type of persecution the early Christians faced, but we do experience difficulties as we try to live a Christian life. Sometimes we are influenced by the words of others to neglect our faith beliefs. Sometimes we are filled with fear because of the violence that is pervasive on our streets and in our neighborhoods. Sometimes we are not honest when it comes to our words and actions in our work situations because of financial difficulties. 

We need to think about the goods things, the positive things taking place around us. Always seeing the negative things brings us down. Focusing on the blessings we already have can lift us up. We must have faith that God cares for us, because God knows us intimately. We can be reassured in our good times and in our difficult times that God loves us, cares for us and protects us.

How do you hold on to a positive attitude when negative difficulties come your way?

What helps you to put your trust in God?