We live in a I can do it by myself culture. ‘I am the master of my fate,’ says the poem Invictus. ‘Out of the night that covers me, Black as a pit from pole to pole, I thank whatever gods may be For my unconquerable soul. In the fell clutch of circumstance, I have neither winced nor cried aloud. Under the bludgeonings of chance, My head is bloody, but unbowed. Beyond this place of wrath and tears Looms but the Horror of the shade, And yet the menace of the years Finds and shall find me unafraid. It matters not how straight the gate, How charged with punishment the scroll, I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul.’ William Ernest Henley

‘Jesus said, ‘Come.’ And Peter left the boat and walked on the water to Jesus. But he began to sink when Peter saw the wind and the waves. He shouted, ‘Lord save me!’ Immediately, Jesus reached out his hand and caught Peter.’ Matt 14: 29 – 31

Such is our human experience. Flinty determination is vital, and humble acceptance of a helping hand is essential. Walking the road of life requires both.

Fear stands up in the town square and shouts its pronouncements for right and wrong, and who is accepted and who is not. Control must be achieved, or the center will not hold. New laws are needed to replace the old laws. Fear is a watcher of people. Look for the fault and write it down. Record the sin and grab the stone. Whisper in dark corners. We must correct the inequities we find in others who are not following our law. Our law is popular; it is cheered in the marketplace by those of like thinking. We must root out the undesirable before they come for us. They will catch on, and we will suffer.

Courage sits silent in the back of the audience. No need to display the sense of place or purpose. Courage knows who she/he is. Quiet assurance of peace. No display of prowess, but rest in God’s plan and guidance. Accept the hand of help.

Fear says you better be afraid of me, I have power, I will hurt you. Courage sits quietly and looks deeply into Fear’s eyes. Fear looks away and seeks reinforcement. Courage whistles a hymn and reflects on his guardian angel. Fear says perhaps you have not heard of my exploits and the many I have vanquished. ‘Bow your knee before me and I will give you all the kingdoms,’ Fear said.

Courage flips the light switch and Fear disappears…