Each weekday for the next 14 days, Father James Lyons (Wellington) will be helping us reflect on God’s Word while we are in lockdown. What is God saying to us as we globally unite to defeat Covid-19?
NO FEAR
Setting: Light several candles near the crucifix and scatter bright coloured cloths, paintings or drawings around your prayer space.
Prayer in praise of this new day:
Daylight takes care of the darkness of night
and the fear darkness often brings.
I thank and praise you, loving God, for your gift
of Jesus, the light of the world,
the One in whom there is no darkness,
who comes to light our way home.
Watch over us in the time of uncertainty.
Strengthen our faith, our hope and our love.
Grant us peace of mind and heart as our isolation continues.
News of the spreading Coronavirus sparked panic buying and rumours sending great alarm through the population. Such behaviour sparks fear, fear only made worse when people are isolated from one another. Fear is a natural response to danger, whether real or perceived. It takes a leap of faith to prevent the paralysing effect of uncontrolled fear. No doubt that is why the Hebrew/Christian scriptures are filled with assurances not to be afraid.
The first female Anglican bishop in the UK, Libby Lane, met considerable opposition to her appointment and found her situation potentially isolating and fearful. But, in a later interview she said her faith had given her a deep sense of belonging and reassurance, and concluded by sharing her most valuable piece of advice:
“It is a constant refrain in Scripture: ‘Do not be afraid’ – don’t live out of fear. Of course, it is natural that we all sometimes feel afraid. We’re afraid of being alone, of failing, of not coping. But if we live our lives from a place of fear, it is damaging to us, to our relationships, to our communities. One needs to find something that gives a sense of safety, of security, of home. And that comes with accepting we are all known by God and loved by God. If you allow that truth in, it enables you to find freedom from fear. So you can live out not of fear but of hope and gratitude.” [If I could tell you just one thing…, Richard Reed, Canongate Books, 2018, p290-1]
Scripture Reflection
The first two chapters of Luke’s gospel cover the conception, birth and early years of both John the Baptist, and Jesus. All associated with these events needed much reassurance to overcome their hesitation and fear. Zechariah, Mary, and the shepherds at Bethlehem are urged, Do not be afraid. Chapter one of Matthew’s account introduces a very troubled Joseph who is told, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife. [Mt 1:20]
Often during his ministry Jesus encourages the disciples not to be afraid, and guides them on a journey to trust in God and trust also in me. John, chapter 14, is part of Jesus’ final words instruction to the disciples and it is rich with reassurance and the promise of his continued presence, especially in the gift of the Spirit (I will not leave you orphans – vs 18). Chapter 15 follows with the “Vine and Branch” teaching – also very reassuring.
Give yourself 5-10 minutes with one of these sections. Consider:
- Why was there such a need for Jesus to reassure those closest to him?
- When have you felt most afraid?
- How and by whom or what have you found reassurance, courage?
- What fears have you noticed, or are noticing, during this isolation?
- How is your faith helping during this experience?
- How is your faith growing, or likely to grow, because of this time?
Prayer of Intercession – For those who live in fear
For those afraid for tomorrow after what happened to them today – [R] Gentle Saviour, grant them peace.
For those concerned for loved ones in a time of uncertainty – [R]
For those whose hearts are heavy with grief and sadness – [R]
For those fearing redundancy for they know many jobs will be cut – [R]
For those fearful for their safety in difficult relationships – [R]
For those afraid of dying; may they know the comfort of being loved – [R]
Gentle Saviour, accept these prayers, offered with the trust of knowing that you are with us. Just as fear is part of our nature, so is our desire to love and to be loved. With faith in you we can live balanced and good lives and rest in your peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
By the tender mercy of our God
the dawn from on high will break upon us,
to give light to those who sit in darkness,
and in the shadow of death,
to guide our feet into the way of peace.
[Canticle of Zechariah, Luke 1:78-9]
Horizons
Morning star
let there be light.
Between the leaves
let there be light.
Children’s faces
let there be light.
On the horizon
let there be light.
Arc of rainbow
let there be light.
Candle at window
let there be light.
To conclude: pray your own personal prayer, thanking God for the reassurance the gift of faith brings to your life, and for the people who bring you peace.
Remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age. [Matthew 28:20]
