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WORD AMONG US WAU.ORG Reflections
Daily Meditation: Matthew 10:26-33
Do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. (Matthew 10:31)
What’s the opposite of fear? We might think it’s courage. And it is. But for Christians, courage is rooted in trust in a loving God. As Jesus reminds us in today’s Gospel, we “are worth more than many sparrows” (Matthew 10:31). In fact, our heavenly Father cares for us so much that he has counted every hair on our heads (10:30)! We can place our trust in him. Even when danger strikes, we are safe in his loving arms.
Surely Jesus’ words sustained the apostles whenever they faced persecution and the threat of martyrdom. But Jesus’ words are meant for us as well. He knows that there are plenty of dangers in this world that can make us afraid.
So how can we counter our fears? By making a conscious decision to trust in the Lord—and to remember how trustworthy he is! You can trust him . . .
- Because while you were still a sinner, he sent his Son to die for you (Romans 5:8).
- Because he gave you his Spirit to be your comforter, consoler, and guide (John 14:16; 16:13).
- Because Jesus is always with you, dwelling in your heart and present in the Eucharist (Matthew 28:20; John 6:48).
- Because his grace is always available to you. It flows into your heart every time you turn to him (Romans 5:20).
- Above all, because he promises that one day you will be united with him forever in heavenly glory (John 14:4).
Take Jesus’ words to heart today: You are worth more than many sparrows. Let them fill you with the fortitude to trust God and walk in his ways. He cares for you. He won’t eliminate every trial or danger in this life, but he will safeguard your soul so that you can live eternally with him in heaven (Matthew 10:28). And in heaven, you will never be afraid again!
“Father, you are worthy of all my trust!”
Jeremiah 20:10-13
Psalm 69:8-10, 14, 17, 33-35
Romans 5:12-15
First Reading — Jeremiah 20:10-13
1. What advice can be gleaned from this passage for responding to threatening situations?
Second Reading —Romans 5:12-15
2. What new insight do you find in this passage?
3. How would you state the results of Adam’s decision, and of Jesus’?
Gospel Reading — Matthew 10:26-33
4. How does the fear of others’ opinions, manipulate us?
5. What perspective does Jesus provide to overcome fear’s control of us?
6. Describe God’s opinion of you.
7. What does it mean to “acknowledge” Jesus before others?
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