Fear Not 220

Dear friends in Christ, as we journey through our #FearNot220 series, let us pause and embrace the timeless words of Psalm 118:24: 'This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.' In a world often shadowed by uncertainty and trials, this verse calls us to a profound act of faith—to recognize each dawn as a divine gift, crafted by our loving Creator for our joy and growth. Oh, how these words resonate with the warmth of our Catholic tradition! They invite us to see God's hand in the ordinary, to find His presence in the rhythm of our days. Remember, this psalm was sung by pilgrims ascending to Jerusalem, a hymn of thanksgiving amid life's pilgrimages. It's a reminder that no matter the burdens we carry, every moment is an opportunity for gratitude and gladness. Drawing from the wisdom of the Early Church Fathers, St. Augustine beautifully reflects on this psalm in his Expositions. He teaches that 'this day' is not merely the span from sunrise to sunset, but the eternal day of Christ's resurrection—the light that banishes darkness forever. Augustine urges us: 'Let us rejoice in the day which the Lord has made, for He has made it for us, that we might live in it with Him.' What a gentle nudge to shift our gaze from fleeting worries to the eternal joy of salvation! In our real-life connections, think of that busy morning rush—preparing breakfast for the family, commuting through traffic, or facing a challenging workday. Amid the chaos, a child's laughter, a kind word from a colleague, or the quiet beauty of a blooming flower can whisper God's invitation to rejoice. I've seen it in my own life: during a season of personal loss, choosing to 'be glad' in small graces—like a supportive community prayer group—transformed my sorrow into hope. It's not about ignoring pain, but about allowing God's light to infuse it with meaning. Beloved, in our Catholic faith, we are called to this radical joy, rooted in the Eucharist where we encounter the Risen Lord anew each day. Let us not fear the unknowns ahead; instead, let us rise with hearts full of praise, trusting that He who made the day holds us in His tender care. So today, dear ones, choose rejoicing! Embrace the gift of now, share a smile, offer a prayer, and let your gladness be a beacon to others. For in rejoicing, we fear not—we live fully in His love. May the Holy Spirit fill you with unshakeable joy! #FearNot220 #063of220 #Catholic