I am struck by how often the command, "do not be afraid" is found in Scripture. In Deuteronomy 31:8 we have this command with the promise that the LORD "will never leave you nor forsake you."
Why do we need to hear this promise? I think it is because God knows how often we feel left or forsaken. I know that I need this reassurance. I see the world around me in confusion and rebellion. The truth is suppressed and insanity seems often to prevail.
There are times when I think that if only God would make his presence more tangible then things would be different in the world. Then I remember that Jesus came and did make God tangible yet the world went on its own way. Those who did not wish to see Jesus as God were able to ignore his challenge and go blindly on.
There were some who were impacted by Jesus, yet even the disciples still had moments of doubt. They still questioned and struggled to understand. This was especially true following Jesus' death.
Yet, when I stop and prayfully consider my circumstances and history, I can see God's hand in so many events, both in my life and the lives of the people around me. When I pause for reflection, I can see that I have never been left or forsaken.
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