I woke up thinking of how different fear and faith are from each other. If we plant seeds of fear – do we expect to harvest a vibrant faith? That question has been rattling around in me this morning.
If you were invited to faith with a description of a terrifying fiery hell and 4,000 verses of “Just as I am” then may I invite you to a different experience of faith? One that is founded in love rather than fear. Together, let’s explore the words of John:
“Love never brings fear, for fear is always related to punishment. But love’s perfection drives the fear of punishment far from our hearts. Whoever walks constantly afraid of punishment has not reached love’s perfection. Our love for others is our grateful response to the love God first demonstrated to us.” 1 John 5:18,19
I am coming alive and fear is being shed from me.
Amen.
Carmen Shenk 