Matthew's Gospel was written at a time when Christians faced opposition, misunderstanding and even persecution because of their faith.
Many believers were tempted to keep their discipleship hidden, to stay quiet and not attract attention.
It is in this context that Jesus speaks these comforting words: “Do not be afraid.”
Three times in this short passage, Jesus tells His disciples not to fear.
Why?
Because fear is often the greatest obstacle to living our faith.
In our parish, we may not face dramatic dangers, but we can sometimes be hesitant to speak about our faith, invite someone to Mass, volunteer in a ministry, or step forward when God is calling us to serve.
We worry about what others might think. We are afraid of standing out, afraid of change, afraid of being judged and sometimes even afraid of fully surrendering our lives to God.
Jesus reminds us that while others may have power over our bodies, they do not have power over our souls.
Our deepest concern should not be pleasing the crowd but remaining faithful to God.
The Lord knows us intimately. He tells us that even the sparrows are cared for by the Father and that every hair on our head has been counted.
In other words, God knows us, loves us and never abandons us.
As a parish community, this Gospel challenges us to ask: Do people know that we are followers of Christ?
Not because we wear our faith as a badge of superiority, but because it shines through our words, actions, kindness and commitment to the Church.
This brings us to the Australian Census coming up in August. When we complete the census, whether online or on paper, let us not be afraid to identify ourselves as Catholic or Christian. It may seem like a small box to tick, but it is a simple public witness to our faith.
We should not keep our Christian identity a secret. Besides, if we can publicly declare our favourite football team, even after a terrible season, then surely we can declare our faith in Jesus Christ.
Every Catholic counted, every Christian counted, is a reminder that faith is alive, that our parish community is alive and that future generations matter.
More importantly, it is a quiet but meaningful way of saying, “Yes, Lord, I belong to You.”
As we reflect on this Sunday’s Gospel, let us hear once again the words of Jesus: “Do not be afraid.”
Trust in God’s love, live your faith openly and never be ashamed to call yourself a disciple of Christ.
Fr Novie Lim
St Mary’s Catholic Church, Echuca, parish priest
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