Paralyzed by fear - December 19, 2025

Today’s Readings: AM Psalm 40, 54; PM Psalm 51; Zech. 7:8-8:8; Rev. 5:6-14; Matt. 25:14-30  

Then the one who had received the one talent also came forward, saying, “Master, I knew that you were a harsh man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you did not scatter seed; so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here you have what is yours.” (Matthew 25:24-25)

A little kid I know sometimes scurries to hide his video gaming device when I walk down the stairs early on a Saturday morning. He acts nonchalant as he watches the television, or looks out the window, or adopts some other behavior that does not fool his momma. He does not hide it well when he has made a sneaky choice and surely fear washes over him when he realizes he is about to get busted. We have talked about different ways to handle this situation, as living in fear drives us into unhealthy patterns that separate us from being in the deep well of God’s love. I imagine we will continue working through this as he grows, for adults wrestle with rational and irrational responses to fear, too.

In today’s excerpt from Matthew’s gospel, Jesus tells a parable of the man who entrusted investments to three who worked for him. The first two invested well and doubled what was put in their hands. After these jobs well done, they were invited to rejoice! The third investor was risk-avoidant. He felt diminished by his fears as he waited for the master’s return. Paralyzed, he buried the investment in the ground for safekeeping and then did not do much else to tend to the talent (which was probably worth the wages he could earn in fifteen years). The master was deeply disappointed upon his return, for safety was not what he was seeking in his investment. He wanted to see growth in the waiting. There was no proof of improvement, rather of lackadaisical living.

The season of Advent is a blend of waiting intentionally and being stirred up to grow in readiness – all so that we are prepared to welcome Jesus. Perhaps there is some pride that needs purging, or distraction that needs decluttering. Maybe it is our muscle of generosity that is yearning to be flexed, or the gift of compassion that is waiting to bless the vulnerable, the hungry, and the hurting. Or, like the third person in today’s parable, is the fear of failure impeding us from taking a risk with our voice, relationships, or lives, that could lead us to a space of hopeful growth. My friends, lean with me into spaces of faith in God, and pray that the Holy Spirit gives each of us courage to face what is uncertain.

With God’s help,

Katherine+

Reflection and Challenge

What is a space of paralyzing fear for you? Spend a few moments praying about that. Journal about how that fear affects your choices and your faith. Maybe even talk with a trusted friend. Ask for God to give you courage to live in spite of that fear.