Fear and insecurity can be a terribly destructive force in our lives.  This is illustrated by the visit of the Magi with King Herod who told him of their search of the “newborn king of the Jews.”  Matthew reports, “When King Herod heard this, he was greatly troubled, and all of Jerusalem with him.” (Mt. 2:3) Herod consulted with the chief priests and scribes who told him that the Messiah was to be born in Bethlehem. 

When Herod learned that the Magi had ignored his instruction to inform him of the location of the Baby Jesus, he was furious and ordered all baby boys two years and younger in Bethlehem be killed. (Mt. 2:1-18)

This horrific act was precipitated by Herod’s fear and insecurity of losing his position as King of Judea.  The Jewish historian, Josephus, “depicts Herod as being pathologically jealous of his power – a number of his family were murdered by him because he suspected them trying to supplant him.” (Jerome Biblical Commentary)

The potential list of fears for many of us can run long and deep.  We fear for our safety, the loss of a loved one, the loss of a job or position, the loss of our money and possessions.  We fear how we will look or be judged by others. We fear underperforming or not doing our best.  We fear illness, disability, and loss of independence.  In the workplace, we may be tempted to tell the boss what he or she wants to hear rather than the truth, out of fear of incurring their disfavor.    

We may even fear getting too close to God and what he may ask of us.  When Peter saw the miraculous catch of fish as a result of Jesus’ presence, he said, “Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.” He and the others were seized with fear, but Jesus said, “Do not be afraid, from now on you will be catching men.” (Luke 5:8-10)

God does not want us to live our lives in fear.  His angels told Zachariah, Mary, and Joseph, “Do not be afraid.”  St. John Paul II began his papacy with the words, “Do not be afraid!.” Jesus wants us to trust in him – in his love and provision.  How ironic that out of fear Herod sought to destroy the one true antidote to fear – Jesus, the Messiah and son of God. 

Do you share your fears with Jesus and ask him to take them?