Revolution of Love.com
The Fear Factor
by Brian
During one of his homilies, our Associate Pastor told a somewhat funny, but ever so truthful, story about death and fear. It went something like this:
One day a man was walking along a deserted road that led to the big city. All of sudden he was joined by Fear and Death. He inquired, "Who are you?" Death responded by introducing himself and his companion Fear. The man then asked, "And what are you doing along this deserted road?" Death explained to the man that they were headed to the big city to kill its inhabitants. This piqued the man's curiosity. He asked Death numerous questions, which started to irritate Death. The man saw that Death was losing his patience so he said, "I have one more question for you and after that no more." Death nodded in agreement. My question is this, "How many people do you plan to kill in the city." Death in a low dark voice said, "Only one hundred". "Only one hundred?" questioned the man. "Yes," responded Death, "my companion Fear will do the rest!"
This story shows that fear is a powerful emotion. It can lead a person to self-centeredness, blindness and pride. In addition, it can force a person to live in his or her own little imaginary world.
From a spiritual perspective, fear is a doorway that Satan uses to enter our mind and control our thoughts. The "father of lies" uses fear as a weapon to immobilize us and draw our gaze away from Christ. He attempts to convince us that Jesus doesnt love us.
Of course, this is the furthest thing from the truth. Jesus is with us and He loves us. The early Christians would protect themselves from fear when it reared its ugly head by frequently using the symbol of an anchor. Why an anchor? It reminded them that they were called to be a people of faith and hope!
When faced with circumstances or situations that cause us uncertainty, doubt, or anxiety the best thing to do is turn to Jesus and pray for the gifts of faith and hope. These two virtues will be our anchor and strength. They will turn back the fear that seeks to lead us into darkness and keep us in the light of Christ.
God bless!