Wednesday, February 24: "Do Not Be Afraid"
Scripture for the day: Genesis 15:1-3
New Revised Standard Version: After these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, “Do not be afraid, Abram, I am your shield; your reward shall be very great.” But Abram said, “O Lord God, what will you give me, for I continue childless, and the heir of my house is Eliezer of Damascus?” And Abram said, “You have given me no offspring, and so a slave born in my house is to be my heir.”
The Message (Version): After this, the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision: “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward.” But Abram said, “O Sovereign LORD, what can you give me since I remain childless and the one who will inherit my estate is Eliezer of Damascus?” And Abram said, “You have given me no children; so a servant in my household will be my heir.”
There are those words, again! “Do not be afraid.” These words are found all over The Bible (Genesis 21:17, Deuteronomy 7:18, 20:1, Joshua 11:6, and again to Abraham in Genesis 26:24). Many times this phrase is said to all those who are a part of the nation of Israel. It, therefore, seems to make sense that God also says these words to Abraham, the father of the Israel nations.
What does Abraham have to fear? One aspect of his fear may come from the risk of military reprisals following his recent battle. His success at winning a battle may put him at danger of losing a larger war. He needs to feel that God, his God, can protect him. He needs to know that God is his shield and all is not for naught.
Question: Do you have a moment in your life when God has been your shield and given you comfort even in a time of unrest?
I’m not an early morning person, but reading scripture and thinking about the big picture is a good way to start the day. I am enjoying this experience. Since God works through people, I would say that one of the times I felt comforted was at Mom’s funeral. I thought I was prepared because her suffering was over many years. And yet, at the final day, Stan was there for me. He came to our family gathering and spoke with such assurance and yet with empathy. He guided our discussion and gave it a deeper meaning. He prepared a service that really met our needs. Dean played Mom’s music and Meryl sang “on Eagle’s Wings”. I was surrounded by God through the actions of my friends and supported by the Church. I felt comforted.