“Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. “ 1 John 4:18a
There are no words that can really encompass all that we may be feeling in this time of so much suffering and injustice. I know for me, I feel the heavy burden of sadness and fear. There is much to fear, much to grieve, so much uncertainty and unrest.
Fear can paralyze, polarize and blind us. Our fight, flight, fawn or freeze response can kick in. When turned inward it becomes despair and depression. When turned outward it can become anger and aggression. Even so, fear is not all bad, it is an emotion that is God-given. Fear helps us remain alert and aware of the dangers we may be facing. It helps us to remain responsive to the welfare and safety of ourselves and others.
Fear when surrendered to the One without fear, the One who is only Love— will compel us and propel us to respond with compassion. To see with renewed sight the situation at hand and take action out of love.
We are each image bearers of God, each worthy of life, liberty, respect and love. We each hold great value to He who will leave the ninety-nine for just one. He who laid down His very life for the whole of this broken and battered world. He without darkness, only light. He without fear, only Love. He see us and is with us. He lifts us out of our fear, sets our feet on solid ground. On eagle wings, He renews us and propels us to love. Even one.
Lord, I want to see. Fear can blind me. Keep my eyes open, my heart soft and willing, awake and aware to the needs around me. Not only to those within my circle but also for the one who may be overlooked, oppressed, mistreated, vulnerable, weak and suffering. I am only one yet I am created in your image. Made to bear witness, hold space for, give voice to, helping to carry the weight of anothers burden. Projecting your light, compelled and propelled by your inclusive, all encompassing love.
“Jesus replied, “‘You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” Matthew 22:37-39 NLT
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Heather,so beautifully written and God’s love expressed! Thank you so much!
Thank you, Sharon for your encouraging words.
Thank you for your beautiful words Heather!
Thank you Holly. Your words mean so much.
Beautiful thoughts and photos. Did you grow that Dahlia?❣️
Thank you Diane! The dahlia flowers were actually rescued from a pile of flower cuttings being discarded at Lowe’s. I spotted the pile and two garden department employee’s were so nice to let me take them and try to revive them. They looked pretty sad before placing them in water. So glad you enjoyed the post and pics:)