Interesting how these words can be used to dismiss or embrace.
A parent who tells a child, “You’re fine, don’t be afraid, nothing to fear.” Leaves a child alone with their very real fear.
When the attorney said, “Don’t be afraid, God will make a way, but keep a bag packed at all times,” I was dismissed.
The birth of a narcissist is a parent dismissing the child’s feelings, who then goes on to dismiss their own and everyone else’s. Christians, historically, have a corner on this market.
So, what is the embrace of “Do not fear?”
For sure the previous verse, “A very present help in trouble,” sets the stage.
A parent who scoops up a child in distress saying, “I’m right here,” they become the child’s “very present help in trouble,” that allows a child’s fear to dissipate.
“Do not fear,” is not a magical statement that can be pulled out of a hat. Just quote the scripture and all will be well.
When I am afraid, I need God. Sometimes he shows up with skin on and sometimes he sovereignly scoops me up I in a way I cannot articulate but is oh so tangible. However, he shows up… I tuck in. God is my very present help in trouble.
I have practiced this many times!
How I tuck in with God formed and continues to form over time. His love woos me through the life of Jesus, people who love me, audacious beauty of creation, and perspective offered through education. I have experienced this dance of love amidst joy, pain, choice, failure, relief, and often a way made where there was no way.
Repeat.
I have held others in their fear, many times.
To just tell me, or if I just told others, “Don’t be afraid,” would be to dismiss. And dismissal, creates abandonment that gives birth to trauma. Trauma occurs when we are alone with our pain. Suffering happens when we hurt together. Trauma creates despair, suffering offers a way through.
When I am afraid and someone or God says, “I am right here,” I tuck into their love, their strength and fear takes a step back, be it ever so small.
Fear loses ground amidst love.
Father help us in these fear-filled days to tuck in. Amen