JEREMIAH 20:10-13 | ROMANS 5:12-15 | MATTHEW 10:26-33
In this brief passage, Jesus speaks a simple message to everyone who believes in him. “Nothing is concealed that will not be revealed.” In other words, the truth he speaks cannot be stifled. In spite of every imaginable opposition, the truth will come to the light, and it will find a place in every heart that accepts it.
Jesus is also alerting us, his disciples, to the challenge we’ll have in proclaiming this message. It will prove to be a dangerous and difficult battle. So, three times he cautions us not to be afraid to speak the truth.
That phrase, do not be afraid, is repeated 365 times in the bible. I guess God wants us to hear it and take it to heart. When the Gospels were written Christians were under persecution. They had plenty to fear. But in spite of the danger they shared the Good News Jesus announced, “the Kingdom of God is at hand.” He’s calling each of us, in our own unique way, to share the Good News – to preach the coming of the Kingdom of God.
Don’t be put off with the idea of preaching Jesus’ message. You don’t have to be preachy to preach; but you do have to believe that the Kingdom of God is within reach – you have to open your heart to it.
In the only prayer Jesus bequeathed to us, he defined the Kingdom of God; it’s life in perfect harmony with God’s will. “Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” The Kingdom of God will manifest itself to the world through the hearts of disciples like you and me. When we, one step at a time, hand over our will to God, the Kingdom of God takes a step into our world.
Handing over our will isn’t easy to do. So, he encourages us, over and over again, “do not be afraid.” Let’s go. Freefall into God’s hands and begin sharing the message. The Kingdom of God is at hand.
