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Word To Life
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Sunday Scripture Readings: Feb. 4, 2007
By Beverly Corzine
Catholic News Service
February 4, Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Cycle C Readings:
1) Isaiah 6:1-2a ,3-8
Psalm 138:1-5, 7-8
2) 1 Corinthians 15:1-11
3) Gospel: Luke 5:1-11
"Do not be afraid" seems to be a command or words of consolation that we hear throughout our lives. One morning long ago I was preparing an elegant tea party for my saintly black-and-white terrier -- a dog that is surely in heaven after a lifetime of playing dress-up and tea parties. I was about ready for us to have our "tea" when I decided that I'd had my fill of imaginary cookies. On the silent march to procure the real thing from the cookie jar, I heard my parents discussing something called "three in one" and that perhaps I needed this new thing.
My dad broke the news to me. I was going to get this new "medicine." I shouldn't be afraid. Suspicion reigned. We would have to go into town three different times to get it. The very fact that my dad was the messenger in this scenario signaled red alert.
Into the doctor's office we walked. I again had been assured not to be afraid. Why the nurse wanted to rub my arm with alcohol was a mystery. I offered my arm. Then just as I was distracted, the nurse plunged a gigantic needle into my arm. My screams rocked the office. Lost in my own suffering, I never would have guessed that when my dad said there is nothing to fear, he was speaking out of his own fears for his only child.
We often hear a variation of the words "Do not be afraid" from people who love us or have our best interest at heart. In Luke's Gospel Jesus assures Peter, James and John with these familiar words after they bring in the most astonishing catch of fish. Jesus knows that when they lay down their nets and follow him, their lives never will be the same because becoming fishers of men will become a rewarding as well as a dangerous occupation. For some it will mean prison or execution. Ultimately, they, along with the countless millions who will answer Jesus' invitation, will be strengthened by his words of counsel, "Do not be afraid."
QUESTIONS:
What emotions or memories arise in you when you hear the words "Do not be afraid"? Name a recent time, or times, when your faith in God's promised reward helped dispel your fears so you could serve the Lord.
SCRIPTURE TO BE ILLUSTRATED:
"Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom shall I send?'" (Isaiah 6:8a)
END
Copyright © 2006 Catholic News Service/U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. The CNS Word To Life column may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or otherwise distributed, including but not limited to such means as framing or any other digital copying or distribution method, in whole or in part without the prior written authority of Catholic News Service.
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