In today’s Gospel, Jesus gives us four reasons to be fearless. Before we explore these, let’s consider the readings that precede Matthew’s account and set the stage. The First Reading is from the prophet Jeremiah, who reminds us that everyone who stands for God will be persecuted. We can be easily canceled in today’s world, yet what matters is that we remain true to our baptismal call. Walk with perseverance in the truth. The psalmist echoes Jeremiah’s message, singing, “Lord, in your great love answer me.” God never abandons us and hears the cry of every human heart. The Second Reading, from Paul to the Romans, reminds us that no matter our transgressions from Adam to Moses, Jesus is the gracious gift who saves all who call upon him.

Building on these readings, Jesus gives us four reasons to be fearless today. First, be fearless because in heaven, clarity will be given to all; nothing will be hidden, and all will come to light. Jesus, the light of the world, calls us to always love the light. Light reveals the path forward; it reveals what is hidden in darkness; light reveals truth.

Secondly, we can be fearless because no one can destroy us completely. While there is death for everyone, no one can destroy both body and soul. Cling to our creator, to the God who loves, calls, and sanctifies us. If we cling to him, if we graft our lives to his, we will never be lost.

The third reason follows: we are precious to God. We are worth more than sparrows; God knows every single hair on our head. It is this loving God who has prepared many dwellings for us in the life to come. God desires nothing more than to lavish us in his love.

Lastly, the fourth reason to be fearless is our capacity to acknowledge Jesus. If we acknowledge Jesus as the Son of God, then we are recognized and claimed for heaven. The Father has revealed everything in his Son. Jesus is the gracious gift given for all. May we never lose sight of him and what he has done for us.