Why be afraid?

My children, whatever befalls you, remember that I am with you always. Whether I’m seen or unseen, whether I seem active or sleeping, remember that I am always keeping watch. I am everywhere; I am all-powerful.

Never harbour any fear or anxiety: I am there, I am watching over you, I love you, nothing is impossible for me...

What more can you need?

Remember those storms, followed by a great calm, that I stilled with a word. Be confident, have faith and courage; do not be anxious for your body or your soul because I am there, all-powerful, loving you.

But do not let your confidence beget heedlessness, ignorance of danger, nor yet self-confidence or confidence in other beings...

The dangers you face are ever-present; strong and wily demons, your sinful nature and the world itself wage a relentless war against you..... And, in this life, the storm is almost unremitting, and your little boat is always close to sinking...

But never forget that I am there; with me beside you, that boat is unsinkable! Mistrust everything, especially yourself, but place in me that unshakeable trust that banishes all anxiety.

________________

Père Charles de Foucauld