Love Casts Out Fear

Dear Saints,

Sometimes the world can feel like a scary place.

This last week, with the anniversary of the attacks on the U.S. Capital, images of LA burning, and the announcement that Meta plans to end its fact-checking program, there are good reasons to be concerned, even afraid.

It’s okay to be afraid. And also, our faith reminds us that fear is not where we are meant to take up residence. Jesus tells us to abide in his love. The Apostle Paul tells us that love casts out fear.

Love is our true home.

To the extent we find ourselves anxious or afraid, we are called to invest ourselves even more in our love. Love in every interaction. Love in the way we show up in the world. Love as the place we find our center.

Love is not a platitude. It is a powerful response. As the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”

This Sunday in our services, we will explore themes of divine love and belonging through the story of Jesus’ baptism. The following Sunday we hold special services remembering the life and ministry of Martin Luther King. And the last Sunday of the month is our Annual Meeting and parish lunch. I hope you can participate in some of these wonderful opportunities for increasing love through community.

In peace,

Andria+