Do Not Be Afraid

St. John Paul II chose this admonition as a major theme of his pontificate.  No wonder.  He had lived through the Nazi occupation of Poland, and later under communism.  He studied for the priesthood in secret and learned to be bold when surrounded by "unfriendly" governments and policies; as Bishop of Krakow, he carried out his role fearlessly; when shot by an assassin's gun, he recovered and continued his pontificate with even more conviction and vigor, audaciously supporting the Solidarity movement in Poland, which eventually ended  the communist regime. He told the world over and over again, Fear not...as if he had been in the boat with the Apostles who had seen Jesus walking on water and were terrified, but also were assured by Jesus, "It is I.  Do not be afraid." (Jn  6: 20). 
As we look at our world, our culture, our "Milenials" our families, we might easily be frightened.  Chaos, transition and challenges confront us on every side. Yet, when we hear Jesus say, "It is I.  Do not be afraid,"
how can we not find peace, and like the Apostles, "want  to take Jesus into our boat."  (Jn 6:21).
Bro. Rene