I have written before about the fear that grips Americans, including American Christians. Our entire political process is driven by fear—of the other party, of terrorism, of threats from other nations, of (fill in the blank).

It’s nonsensical.

Regarding political parties, they have both had about equal shares of the Presidency, representation in Congress, and appointed roles on the Judiciary—and they’ve both done a pretty good job of making a mess of things. Regarding terrorism, there is no existential threat of terrorism in the US—you are many times more likely to die in your bathtub or falling down your stairs. Regarding other nations, as one who has traveled extensively around the world I can honestly say, as messed up as we think we are, everyone still wants to be like us and still looks at us the place where anyone can be anything.

Yes, the world is a mess. Yes, our nation is a mess. Yes, our cities and towns are a mess. But what do you expect between the cross and second coming?

So why are we so afraid? If our souls belong to Christ there is nothing that anything or anyone can do to us, for we are safe and secure in Him. Relax. Live in peace. Serve God and your neighbor.

Why should the wicked move you? Heed not their craft and spite! Your Savior who doth love you will scatter all their might. He comes, a King most glorious, And all His earthly foes in vain His course victorious endeavor to oppose.

-- "O How Shall I Receive Thee," P. Gerhardt

O LORD, you hear the desire of the afflicted; you will strengthen their heart; you will incline your ear to do justice to the fatherless and the oppressed, so that the man who is of the earth may strike terror no more.

-- Psalm 10.17-18, ESV