“Fear no one” says Jesus. But we have a lot of fears. In fact, the whole world is in fear – fear of Covid 19. Death is our biggest fear. All other fears stem from the fear of death. Everyone is dealing with many such fears. What does fear do to us? Fear increases uncertainties and anxieties; muddles our reasoning capacity; dulls our spiritual power; and makes our lives miserable.

 Can fear solve any of our problems? No. Fear of pain is more painful than that pain. Fear of death is deadlier than death itself. In this context we reflect on the words of Jesus: ‘Are not two sparrows sold for a small coin? Yet not one of them falls to the ground without your Father’s knowledge. So, do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.’ God provides for and takes care of even the little sparrows; how much more would God provide for you? You are worth more than many sparrows. So, do not worry and fear nothing.

 However, Jesus continues, “Be afraid of the one who can destroy both soul and body in Gehenna.” So, fear God. How do we comprehend these seemingly paradoxical statements? Fear no one and Fear God. We deal with two types of fear here. The first is the fear that we experience: fear of lightning; fear of snakes etc. No one teaches us this fear. It happens.

 The second is the fear that we learn. Psalm 34 invites us, “Come, you children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD. This fear is not a feeling; it is wisdom. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. It is like the awesome wonder in front of the mighty Ocean. It attracts us and simultaneously repels us. God’s holiness attacks us but our unworthiness concurrently repels us. This reverential fear teaches us, fills us and perfects us.

 So, the words ‘Fear no one’ refer to the first fear. This fear does not help us. That is why Jesus said, “Can any of you by worrying add a single moment to your life-span?” So do not worry, “Your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.”

 Today I ask you to pray for all in the world. Everybody is a child of God. Our trust in the providence of God should enable us to drive away all our fears. Faith in God, trust in our ‘God given talents’, confidence in valuable structures, hope in human wellbeing and so on will help us to shape a luminous future.  

 I am very happy to announce that on the first weekend of July we are going to restart Sunday Masses. Weekday and weekend Mass schedule that we had before the pandemic will be resumed. However, the limitation on gatherings for religious worship as issued by the State will be in effect. Kindly go to our website to get to know more information and details.

 I am looking forward to seeing you in person in our churches. Pray for good health and happy lives. May God bless us and our world!