Eastertide
May 18, 2017
Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 3:13-22
Now who will harm you if you are eager to do what is good? But even if you do suffer for doing what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear, and do not be intimidated, but in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an account of the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and reverence. Keep your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned, those who abuse you for your good conduct in Christ may be put to shame. –1 Peter 3:13-17
My mother did not like to get her head under water, and apparently, I internalized her fear of water. I would get in the water but never too deep. My college required anyone who could not swim to learn how to swim. I passed the class by being able to hold my breath the length of the pool. Developed great lungs that year. I enjoyed swimming but just would not trust myself enough to breathe during the process. After graduation and getting my first job, I took a “Frady Cat” swimming class after work. The class indeed had several like me suffering from an irrational fear, but there were also a few who had experienced trauma related to water and still others who for some reason of physics could not float. They had to learn to swim without the benefit of the buoyancy provided by the water. I float like a cork.
The young woman who taught the class had the patience of Job and the persistence of Paul. I learned how to swim so did all the others. She carefully analyzed each of her students and implemented unique plans and goals for each. I envision the Holy Spirit having the same traits. Being right with God and working to maintain that homeostasis, that steady state, is our task. From that point, we can do all we are called to do with the knowledge that God will enable our work if we need a little help along the way.
Prayer: God, let my fears be a catalyst for courage not a stumbling block to service. Amen.