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Never Be Afraid
A few weeks ago, my family went to see the film, The
Croods. It is a lovely movie about a prehistoric family struggling to
survive in the world where they live. After watching the film, I was surprised
at how well we all can relate to these memorable characters.
At the beginning of the movie, the father repeatedly told
his family, “Always be afraid.” This mantra kept his family alive. The problem
was it also kept them sheltered and unable to experience anything new. As the
world changed around them, they were unable to cope on their own with the new
challenges facing them.
As I think about my own family, I often wonder if I am
telling them the same message as the father of the movie. I love my children
and want to protect them from any danger that may present itself. The only
problem is if I keep them from everything or person that may cause them danger and
harm, they will never get to experience anything, even the good. When they are
no longer with me, how will they be able to think on their own or make
decisions on their own? Scary as it is, I have to give my children
opportunities now to experience life and make their own choices. Of course,
this requires some careful guidance from time to time and a lot of talking afterwards.
Our heavenly father works this way too. He gives us a chance
to experience life and the opportunity to make choices for ourselves. He also
provides guidance when we need it, if we are willing to listen. Never did he
say, “Hide and be afraid.” Instead, he sent his own son into the world to live
and be a part of the people. Jesus experienced the world. He associated with many
different types of people and made choices just like us. Never once did Jesus
hide in fear from the world.
At the end of the film, the father of The Croods
finally told his children, “Never be afraid.” He came to realize by constantly
living in fear, his family closed themselves off from the infinite
possibilities that just may help them live. By the same token when we are
close-minded and afraid, we often keep ourselves from being open to some of the
very blessings God wants to give us.
This week, never be afraid! When you are, it’s okay. Just remember,
you can always pray and ask for help getting past your fears and anxieties.
