Faithful fearing. . . (6A Easter)

"We should fear and love God so that . . ." begins Martin Luther's explanation of each commandment in his Catechism.

"Do not fear what they fear, . . . but in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord." ( I Peter 3.14b)

The voices of early 21st century media come at us with a quantity that is incomprehensible and a fear that seems insatiable. Our daily unbelief is quick to lead us down the road of fear, being afraid of what people are afraid of these days, terrorism, disease, poverty, the American president. . . Our fears express our lack of fear of the God "who holds our souls in life," (Psalm 68.8a, Book of Common Prayer) creating idols of those fears. These fears spread like fire and water; our enemies ride over our heads (v.11). These fears intimidate us into seeing their world views, dividing society, dividing churches, dividing our very souls.

We are called to the faithful fearing of the commandments as Luther read them. In every explanation is an expression of the fruits of faithfulness that does not fear as the world fears, but is rather in amazement at the steadfast love and mercy of God, leading Israel through the sea, rasing his Son Jesus from the dead. Faithful fearing of God leads us down the path, as with a wall of fire and water on either side of us, and God leads "us out into a place of refreshment".

"In your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord," writes I Peter. "Bless our God, you peoples: make the voice of his praise to be heard. " (Psalm 66.7 BCP) Faithfully fear the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, not what "they" fear. Be amazed at the refreshment of the Holy Eucharist where the voice of praise triumphs over fear. Hear the testimony of God's word and deed in Christ's resurrection, making us whole and holy in the power of the Spirit.