The dictionary defines 'fear' as "an emotional reaction to a perceived threat of evil to our well-being." Fear, then, is an emotional reaction. We can be afraid of things that are not actually evil, even though they might be perceived as such. That which we fear could actually help us grow in faith. For example, a severe downturn in the economy could compel us to turn to the Lord, walk more closely with Him, and trust Him more than ever before. However, there are some things we should fear. We teach children to fear things that can harm them, such as a hot burner on the stove. As adults, we should be especially afraid of things that can harm our soul.

To overcome fear, we need faith (Mk 5:36). The synagogue official and the woman with the chronic bleeding both broke through any fears to come to Jesus. The synagogue official risked ruining his reputation with his Jewish peers. The bleeding woman was 'unclean'; she would have been fearful of passing on her uncleanness to anyone who touched her (see Lv 13:45). Nonetheless, each stepped past that emotional reaction of fear and stepped out in faith.

Of what should you be afraid? Be afraid of not becoming all that Jesus wants you to be. Today at Mass, when you receive Jesus in the Eucharist, give over to the Lord that one powerful fear that keeps you from becoming the disciple God wants you to be. Surrender your fear today and let Jesus put it away forever.

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, December 29, 2012

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