February 2, 2026, Monday of the 4th Week Ordinary time-A, THE PRESENTATION OF THE LORD

Malachi 3:1-4

Psalm 24

Hebrews 2:14-18

Luke 2:22-40

…free those who through fear of death had been subject to slavery… Hebrews 2:15

Lord, how many times does your word urge us to not be afraid?  You rightly see fear as a prison of the mind and spirit.  We can fail to live the abundant life you offer because we are afraid.  So what am I afraid of?  What has enslaved me all these years that’s kept me from living out the life you created me for?  It can be fear of failure.  Fear of what other people may think of me.  Fear that my true weaknesses will be exposed.  Maybe even fear of death.  Fear that I may lose what I live for like material possessions, power, or place in the world.  Lord, you brush all this aside.  You have become like me so I can live like you—free of all fear.  The good news is we prosper more, live more freely and find real peace and happiness when we live for you.  I know you are my destiny and goal.  To be free is to rely on your for everything.  Lord, help me to step out in faith, to risk, to dream, to be free of what holds me back.  I surrender my fears to you.  Amen