July 14, 2024 – Eighth Sunday after Pentecost

Freedom from Fear

Fear is a cruel master, offering no true reward but enslavement through threats and control. This is evident in the life of Herod Antipas. Fear led him to make irrational and ruthless decisions such as the unjust execution of John the Baptist. We are all well acquainted with fear. The worst fear of all is the dread of God's wrath because of our sins. Yet, Jesus came to free us from this fear, offering forgiveness and peace with God through His death and resurrection. In Him, we find liberation from fear's tyranny. Today we are encouraged to confess our sins and embrace the assurance that in Christ, there is no condemnation, only eternal life and freedom from fear.