Daily Catholic Lectio
Wed, 8 January ’25
Wednesday after the Epiphany
1 John 4:11-18 | Psalm 72 | Mark 6:45-52
Love Drives out Fear
In today’s first reading, St. John, who declares that “God is love,” calls his community to embrace love. He writes: “There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not yet perfect in love.”
Love flows in different directions. When love moves from above to below, it is fearless. A father loves his daughter without fear; a teacher loves her student freely. However, when love moves from below to above, it often carries fear. Loving someone who is older, more powerful, or wealthier can make us hesitant, afraid of displeasing them or speaking out. But God’s love for us is never fearsome. Through the mystery of the Incarnation, God has come close to us, as one among us, removing any reason for fear.
In the Gospel reading, we see Jesus calming the fears of his disciples.
Caught in a stormy sea, the disciples see Jesus walking toward them and cry out, “Ghost!” This startling reaction reflects their own fearfulness, not who Jesus truly is. Jesus, who had been praying in solitude with God, approaches them and steps into the boat.
The disciples were overwhelmed by the darkness, the loneliness, the raging sea, and the howling storm. But Jesus reassures them with His comforting words: “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid!” His presence dispels their fear.
God’s presence in our lives has the power to calm our deepest fears. Yet, at times, we misrepresent God through our rigid interpretations of Scripture, our human-made rules, or the misuse of authority. These can present God as a fearsome figure, rather than the loving Father He truly is.
What fears burden us today? Some fears are healthy and guide us: fear of death reminds us to value life, and fear of debt inspires us to work hard. These positive fears help us grow. But destructive fears—fear of failure, fear born of low self-worth, or fear of differences—must be cast aside.
Today, let us reach out to someone who is afraid, sharing the comforting message of Jesus: “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid!”
When we extend love and courage to others, we reflect the Lord who drives out fear. Truly, love drives out fear.
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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