Lent 2021: A Story to Live BySample

An antidote to fear

Reflection:

This last year our world has been gripped by fear. It seems like everything has been outside of our control. In this context Tearfund has been called to respond in more than 40 countries (the most we ever had at one time) – places where the impact of coronavirus, and the lockdowns have been huge, knocking back our work in getting people out of poverty by ten years.

It would have been easy to sink in fear – fear for those already struggling being impacted so badly, fear of the need being so beyond our means to respond. But we have laid this at the Lord's feet, knowing we cannot do this ourselves.

And God has really honoured that – with churches throughout the world stepping forward, getting messages to their congregations and beyond, and reaching out to the vulnerable with practical support such as food. Even more they have gone beyond any support provided through Tearfund and mobilised their own resources to help their communities. Seeing how God is working has been such an encouragement and an antidote to fear.

Prayer:

Lord, there is so much happening in this world that leaves us in fear. Yet you desire us to have peace, and to know that you will work for your purposes through the situation. Thank you for the ways you are working and help us to see them and to calm our fear. Amen.

Author: Myles Harrison

Myles is the International Director for Tearfund and oversaw our global coronavirus response.