One of the recurring themes in Jesus' teachings is 'do not be afraid.' This instruction might seem peculiar given that suffering, aging, and death are intrinsic aspects of the human condition. There is a part of us that does not want to confront these realities: we will die; we will suffer. How can we more fully embrace the human condition instead of fleeing from it? This question is easier posed than answered. At the peak of our anxieties and worries, altering our habitual behaviors can be incredibly challenging. Similar to a flood, our emotions overwhelm us, guiding our thoughts, feelings, and actions in unexpected ways.
Consider Mary, whose heart was pierced by the profound grief of her son's death, or the challenge of bearing a child out of wedlock. We must step back, reflect, and ponder. Do we incorporate reflection into our daily routine?
In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus' sweat turned into blood droplets falling to the ground as he prayed, 'Let not my will, but yours be done.' After this prayer, a transformation occurs. It's as if Jesus taps into an unseen strength to confront his fears, feeling less isolated. Do we engage in prayer about our worries with God? Prayer is more than merely words directed one way. While it might seem so, God may not remove our suffering or challenges, but drawing closer to God helps us realize His proximity to us. At the gospel's conclusion, Jesus' statement, 'I am with you,' echoes the angel's message to Mary, 'The Lord is with you.' We are not alone. Fear, anxiety, and struggles can become gateways to a deeper divine engagement. Our hearts remain restless until they find rest in God.
Yet, in the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus' closest disciples fell asleep. When do we become oblivious to the injustices in our world? The disciples could not stay awake, unaware of the impending events. Many followers would soon flee, while Mary and some disciples would follow from a distance. Did the beloved disciple John seek out Mary? When Mary learned of the events, she ran towards Jesus despite the risk of suffering, struggle, and pain. Mary's active decision to confront anxiety and pain, without control over the impending events of Jesus' passion and death, offered comfort to those in need, including Jesus and John. She exemplifies a loving mother. Do we invite Mary into our lives? Do we emulate her approach to pain and suffering, especially in the face of injustice? There is a divine element at play beyond human capacity.
We will experience shock, anger, and a flood of emotions. Like Thomas, we will doubt. Yet, it is through doubt that true faith arises. Our questions and discomfort lead us to a deeper reality beyond our immediate perception. Beyond the veil of faith lies an eternal love that calls us to engage more deeply with the human condition—not to withdraw but to face pain, suffering, and injustice. Not with violence or rejection, but with acceptance, humility, and sometimes passive resistance. Sometimes it not what we do, but by allowing others to love us. Christ's glory can manifest in our lives, making us and also others beacons of hope. This hope is not because we possess all the answers, but because we become vessels of God's love through our relationship with Him and others.
Choose 2 or 3 questions for further reflection
What does Jesus frequently advise us to do when facing fears and anxieties?
How does the inevitability of suffering and death challenge us to confront our fears?
What role does reflection play in dealing with anxieties and worries?
How does prayer influence our ability to face fears?
In what way did Jesus' prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane demonstrate a transformation in facing fears?
How does drawing closer to God help us realize we are not alone in our struggles?
What example does Mary provide in terms of confronting fears and anxieties?
How can facing fears and anxieties become gateways to engaging more deeply with the divine?
Why is it important to confront injustices and pain with love and humility?
What role do other play as we face fears and anxieties?
How does becoming vessels of God's love transform our approach to the human condition and its challenges?
Listen to these songs as you reflect on these questions
Song - Hope Darst - Peace Be Still
Song - I Am Not Alone - Kari Jobe
Final Prayer
Gracious and Loving Father, in the stillness of this moment, we seek Your comforting presence, fully aware that we are never alone in our journey. As we navigate the ebbs and flows of life, the uncertainties, and the shadows that sometimes darken our path, remind us of Your constant presence. Like a beacon of light guiding ships through stormy seas, Your love illuminates our way, dispelling every fear and doubt. Grant us the strength to face each day with courage, knowing that You walk beside us, within us, and ahead of us. In moments of solitude, whisper to our hearts the assurance that we are enveloped in Your eternal embrace, never forsaken. May this knowledge transform our anxiety into peace, our loneliness into a deep sense of belonging, as we rest in the truth that we are forever held in Your loving arms. Amen.
(Audio Available)
