Courageous Ones,
Fear is a very real thing. We listen to the radio, turn on the TV, and visit a website or app. We feel that certain fears are unique to our time and that previous generations did not know fear like we do. However, fear has always been a force in human existence. It is hard not to fall prey to the paralyzation or inaction caused by fear.
In the Annunciation to Mary, the angel appeared and said to a young confused woman, “Do not be afraid.” Do not be afraid.
Easier said than done.
The world will tell us to “cheer up, get over it!” in the midst of our griefs or fears. God says, “I am with you in it. I am with you in your fear. You are not alone.”
We are called to say “yes, God, yes!” in our fear. “Yes, God, yes! I feel you with me. You are with me in my fear. You help me to face my fear.”
Bottom line: You are never alone.
Just as God is with you, I pray that you feel the presence of Island United with you. I look forward to seeing you on Sunday at 10 am or on Zoom as we celebrate God and community.
Be strong,
Rev. Michael Cronin
