This week in “I Am” we will be reflecting on Jesus as our Good Shepherd from Psalms 23
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me; (Psalm 23:4)
It has been said that fear is not a lack of faith as much as it is a faith in the wrong things. There is a strange dynamic at work when we follow Jesus. He unapologetically exposes our fears in order to reveal our true object of worship found underneath the surface of pious behavior. As our Good Shepherd, He protects us. In a dangerous world this belief embodies a dangerous faith – that the God of heaven is indeed with us.
We think in terms of God taking away problems in our life but this is rarely what is best. It would be of no work at all for Him to simply remove the evil in this world, yet He does not. Instead, He comes down into our pain and fear to suffer with us. If this is His plan, then we can assume this is what is best, regardless of the pain. The reward of life is Him. We get Him. That in the midst of questions and doubt and fear, He dwells with us. The incarnation is as practical as it is theological.
What do you fear? Is it possible to see Jesus in the fear with you?
Thank you Lord for being with us. Open our eyes to your presence and your power. May we see you clearly each day as we plan and move.
Matt simon blog 