We are known, there is nothing to fear

[Mark Dohle]

We are known, there is nothing to fear​

Dear children! I am thanking God for each of you. In a special way, little children,
thank you for having responded to my call. I am preparing you for the new times
that you may be firm in faith and persevering in prayer, so that the Holy Spirit may
work through you and renew the face of the earth. I am praying with you for peace
which is the most precious gift, even though Satan wants war and hatred. You, little
children, be my extended hands and proudly go with God. Thank you for having
responded to my call.” Medjugorje Monthly Message June 25, 2019 to Marija
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Everyone speaks of peace or the desire for it. Yet, how can it be achieved? Most people I know, or in some way, at war with themselves. Inner conflicts that are hidden from others, yet powerful just the same. Our wars, family situations, our cities, and the state of the world is but a reflection of our own inner lives.

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People often talk about love/hate relationships. The human heart is deeply sensitive, and when betrayed, it is normal to protect ourselves from further pain. This can lead to spreading the pain around when our desire to protect ourselves leads to reacting, instead of interacting. Self-destructive behavior of all kinds flows from the circle-of-pain that is easy to get caught up in. It takes away our peace, often forcing us to seek relief in ways that only make us suffer more.

As a Christian, I believe that I am called to allow Jesus to incarnate in me, so that my hands, in reality, do become his hands. My mind, his mind, my heart his heart. The closer this conscious union with Christ Jesus becomes, the more I see how I can step in and slow that process down. My anger, my fear of pain, and the wounds that still need healing can only happen when I admit my need for grace, mercy, and healing. In that, I become more human, though only Jesus Christ was fully human. On the Cross, he forgave everyone, a fully human act. Jesus, was a man whose heart was so strong that he could take on the pain, fear, anger, and hatred, both for self and others, that is the burden of humanity, and not be destroyed by it, but transform it into love and mercy.

We are known, there is nothing to fear, but all we need do is to open up our hearts to the peace and healing that Jesus offers. It is not an easy path, but easier than the ones we choose for ourselves. We are called to love, to be merciful, and compassionate because we are made in the image and likeness of God.

Don’t be dismayed

Until the day dawns when Christ Jesus comes,
at our death, or on the last day,
as we seek to walk His way of love,
we will fall seven times a day,
do not be dismayed by this,
for we grow by our failures,
if we just but trust in the Infinite love of our Father,
as shown us through Jesus Christ.

All who bear good fruit, no matter their path
are closer to the Lord than they know,
so let us all be gentle with others,
knowing that the human heart is fragile
and easily broken, scarring in defense from shattered trust–Br.MD​