Fear

 “And do not be afraid of those who kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul. But instead fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in Hell. Are not two sparrows sold for one small coin? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground without your Father. For even the hairs of your head have all been numbered. Therefore, do not be afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭10:28-31‬ ‭CPDV‬‬

https://www.bible.com/42/mat.10.28-31.cpdv

FEAR (false evidence appearing real) is a negative construct of an impending but unwarranted doom.  There is a healthy fear that is akin to awe that inspires respect and reverence.  And what of fear of death or the unknown or unknowable?  

Today this COVID 19 pandemic stirs panic and fear.  Admittedly, I am not so much afraid of death itself as I am afraid of being physically, mentally or functionally incapacitated.  As a physical therapist, I’ve witnessed lives changed completely by a debilitating disease or infirmity.  

I cannot imagine not being able to move a muscle from the neck down to my toes.  I am afraid of completely being dependent on other people or machines to keep me alive.  In my mind, that is a worst fate than death itself.

Oh Lord, please teach me to trust in you completely.  Jesus, who cast out demons, made the blind see and the lame walk, teach me to trust in your ways.  It is difficult to feel your presence when there is fear.  I am blinded by my own fears and I am immobilized by it.  Jesus I trust in you.