Scripture Reading
1 John 4:18
There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.
Reflection
Fear and love occupy the same space and cannot coexist — as love grows, fear diminishes. Many people approach God primarily with dread, braced for condemnation. But John insists that the love of God, received and known, displaces that fear entirely. The antidote to anxious religion is not trying harder but opening more fully to the love that is already being offered.
Prayer for Today
O Lord, my God, thank you that you are my rock and fortress, I can always find refuge in you. You have said that whoever follows you will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. As I feel the darkness of grief and sorrow at this time, shine your light on my life. Remind me that my hope is found in you. May your love surround me, your Spirit guide me, your voice cheer me, your peace calm me, your shield protect me, your wisdom arm me, wherever you may lead me. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Amen.