Birds or trees do not seem to be upset over things or being bothered by the opinion of others. But we, human beings constantly live in fear, especially fearing the opinion of others. Most of our actions and decisions are influenced by this fear - the house we choose to live in, the dress we choose to buy and wear, the food we order in the presence of others, and the list is very long - and these are haunted by the fear of getting approval or being humiliated by others. We need to rise high above all these unwanted snares that curtail and limit our freedom, and by keeping our focus on God and put our firm trust in Him, who alone should approve us,  for He alone cares for us sincerely. Solomon also warns us of the hazard of staying in fear of others: “It is dangerous to be concerned with what others think of you, but if you trust the Lord, you are safe.” (Pro 29:25) Let the words of Christ, our Master comfort us and give us hope to trust in God: “Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?" "Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?” (Mt 6:26, 30) May we be strengthened at the sight of the providence that the birds of the sky and the grass of the field enjoy, and lift our heads up and live in hope and joy, being fully confident and fearless.

Abba, Thank You for inviting us to disregard the fear and opinion of others. Let Your Spirit make us be pleased to live by depending upon and trusting in You, In Jesus’ Most Protecting Name, Amen.