On Fear and God’s Hero
July 21, 2010
Our focus at West Broad this past Sunday was on superheroes. We considered the hero during our afternoon Summer Bible Explosion, and we considered the hero during our morning sermon. A superhero is effective and powerful. But there is one thing a superhero is not — fearful. Think of fear, for a moment. Millions are jobless, and millions more are fearful of losing their jobs. Our country is in economic turmoil. The threat of terrorist attacks is constantly before us. There is violence in our schools and tension in our homes. We fear the stranger, the visit to the doctor, the voice on the other end of the phone. All this, and so much more, has locked us in a vise-grip of fear that makes us timid, unproductive, and unhappy. Is it any wonder Jesus presents to humanity with two words: “fear not.” Even in impossible situations, “fear not” (Mk. 5:36). In moments of crisis and unrest, “fear not” (Matt. 8:23-26). Why is Jesus against fear? Well, fear is useless. Fear never cured a disease. It never saved a marriage, raised a family, or started a business. Fear never shared the gospel, planted a church, or worked to engage bitter, broken, often hostile people. These things require courage, not fear. And that courage is derived from a relationship with the God who calls us from panic to productivity (Isa. 43:1; 41:13). Fear is debilitating and will lead to destruction (Rev. 21:8), but courage in Christ leads to peace, stability and success. Do you want to be a real superhero? Then follow Jesus, walk courageously, and do your part to help make a difference in the world! —JLNJR (Resource: Lucado, Imagine Your Life Without Fear, 12)
