Fear Not
JUNE 24, 2020
By Tim Shaw, Associate Pastor
We are all living through exceptionally challenging, and at times, quite frightening times. There's uncertainty about the future, and our lack of clarity about what is next can lead to increasing anxiety. One of the things I’ve noticed in my own life is that giving in to my fears can sometimes lead me to make unwise decisions. Fear can be an extremely important emotion that alerts us to real dangers ahead. But being debilitated or immobilized by fear is something God wants to help me overcome.
In Luke chapter 22 there are a number of dramatic scenes that make Jesus’ disciples fearful. I’d encourage you to reread that chapter. It’s remarkable how many incredibly important events are recorded in it.
One dramatic scene takes place at the last meal Jesus has with His disciples in an Upper Room just before His arrest and crucifixion. At that dinner, Jesus suddenly announced to His disciples that one of them would betray him. When he said that in the middle of dinner, something unexpected happened. All His disciples did something that seems to me somewhat out of character. All of them turned to Jesus and asked, "Is it me? Am I the one?" You don't get that detail in Luke 22. You find that very important piece of information in Matthew 26.
The fact that all of the disciples ask, "Is it me?" is quite surprising. These guys were super competitive with one another. They frequently had arguments about which of them was the greatest. They had one of those disagreements right here in Luke 22. They got in a discussion about who was the greatest. The greatest what? The greatest fisherman? The strongest man? The fastest fishing net cleaner? The most spiritual? It doesn't matter. Do you remember when John boasted in his gospel that he outran Peter to the tomb? Why did John think we needed to know that detail? Well, because they were super competitive.
Since these guys are so competitive, you'd think that when Jesus says in the middle of dinner that one of them was going to betray Him that they'd look at one another and try to figure out which of them was going to do this dastardly deed. BUT that is not what they do. When Jesus said, “Tonight, one of you is going to turn your back on me and cut me loose,” they ALL said, "Jesus, is it me? Is it me?" That was a stunning outbreak of humility and honesty. Every one of them––John, James, Nathaniel, Matthew and even Peter––apparently, wondered out loud whether they could be the one who would sell Him out.
Why do all the disciples have this moment when they wonder whether they might be the one? It was probably because they were afraid of what was unfolding all around them, and they were uncertain whether they could withstand that coming pressure.
We are living in very difficult times. Every day we seem to face new challenges that are piled on top of old familiar ones. Jesus knows and understands that we are living in anxious times, and He wants to again speak a strengthening word to us.
The most common command in the Bible is some form of “Don’t be afraid.” It occurs over 200 times. Psalm 56:3 says, “When I am afraid, I will trust in You.” Fear is something we must battle. If you are isolated and lonely, take steps to reach out to someone. If you are concerned about the unknown and are feeling paralyzed, pursue more information from trustworthy sources. You might consider watching a summary of the news instead of watching it all day long. If you’re discouraged by your own failings, remember that we serve a God who is merciful and is ready to forgive you and raise you to your feet and encourage you on your way. Don’t let failure immobilize you.
Living with anxiety can be exhausting. Make sure you take care of yourself. Eat healthy meals and make sure you get enough sleep each night. Turn off the TV, and put your smartphone away before going to bed. Go for a walk. Get some exercise. Meditate on Scripture. Spend time in prayer. These are some of the things I’m reminding myself to do in these uncertain times.
Back in March I said in a sermon that things are NOT only as they seem. It is so important that we remember that. Things are not ONLY as they seem. There is a greater reality that frames these days through which we are living. Yes, the challenges, the pain, the threats are real, but there is more to reality. We are not alone. Our God is with us and He is utterly trustworthy. Live with courage. Face your fears. Give them to Jesus. Draw closer to Jesus and know the strengthening, steadying in-filling of His Spirit. Fear not as you entrust yourself to Him.
Prayer: Gracious and Loving God, we are so grateful that you are a God who cares so deeply for us. You are a solid rock upon which we can build on our lives. In every storm, in every difficulty, in seasons of uncertainty and fear we can rely completely on You. Steady our hearts and mind. Fill us afresh with your Holy Spirit that we might live with courage and hope. In Jesus Name we pray, Amen.
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