In both today’s Epistle and Gospel readings, we hear the importance of obedience to Christ’s commandments. Fr. Micah focuses on that which Christ commanded more than anything else: “Fear not.” He emphasizes three of humanity’s most prevalent fears and shows us how we can overcome them,fulfilling Christ’s command to fear not.

First is loneliness, which we can overcome by loving others and by accepting the love of Christ and the church. Second is failure, which we can overcome by having humility and allowing Christ to give us grace and help. Finally, there is the fear of death, which is overcome by the resurrection, the great hope and joy of Christians.