HOMILY FOR 18TH TUESDAY ORDINARY TIME — YEAR A
HOMILY THEME: LOVE EXPELS FEAR
BY: Bishop Gerald M Musa
Wise people say, “The brave man is not he who doesn’t feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.” Naturally, in moments of depression and desolation, we are gripped by fear and despair, which make us question and doubt the love and presence of God in our lives. Our fears can affect our relationship with God. In difficult times, we need these reassuring words: “God is love,” and He who is full of love cannot abandon us in our struggles.
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When Peter was gripped with fear of what appeared to be a ghost, Jesus said to him, “Take heart, it is I; have no fear” (Mark 6:50). God shows us His love and presence when we find ourselves in dangerous situations. Additionally, fear can influence our relationships with others. Sometimes, we are emotionally broken, wounded, and too frightened to love because of past negative experiences or strained relationships. According to St. Augustine, “Fear is the enemy of love.” This explains why love produces peace, trust, and joy. Often, fear is accompanied by negative emotions such as hate, distrust, and suspicion.
Fear destroys our ability to trust, love, and relate freely with others. As an Indian guru says, “When you love a person, all fear disappears. And when you are afraid, all love disappears.” No wonder the Apostle says, “There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:18). Do our fears affect our relationship with God and other people?
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