Don’t be afraid

The disciples are impressed by the temple’s architecture. But Jesus unexpectedly flips their amazement into deep foreboding. “All of this will be destroyed.” Don’t trust in this—it will not last. They lived in difficult times with rampant poverty and injustice. The Roman Empire was great if you had resources, but not if your main resource was your body.
Jesus continues to explain that they should not be led astray by those who claim to be the answer, who will save the day, who will keep you safe.” They might mean well, but they will not keep you safe.
He continues. . . “Don’t be frightened. There is more to come.” The reign of God is still in motion—despite all the trouble. “Nations and kingdoms will be rattled. Earthquakes, famines—all just the beginning of trouble.” Don’t be afraid. None of this trouble can steal your soul. The reign of God is far beyond the news, it envelops the trouble on this planet.
These words can save us from false hope. We are tempted to seek hope in the wrong things. Daily.
The faithful and wise response to trouble is not despair but prayer. Our daily journey with trouble can teach us to trust deeply in mercy. The Eternal Strength of the reign of God is far greater than the most severe trouble. It just often doesn’t feel that way.
Jesus encourages, “Don’t be afraid.” The Spirit of God invites us to the mercy in silent prayer, in spoken prayer, as well as desperate prayer. The Scriptures are a strong help, and the Spirit is present in us always. Another helpful tool of Mercy is our shared fellowship in love. As we care for each other, as we care for our neighbor, we are practicing the mercy of love.
The sacrament of baptism names the washed a beloved child of God; while in the sacrament of holy communion our suffering, crucified, risen Lord meets us at the table of mercy.
These are the many tools we have by faith to save us from fearing the ever-present trouble around us. This love of Christ is sufficient. Thanks be to God.