Meditation: John 10:22-30

Saint Fidelis of Sigmaringen, Priest and Martyr (Optional Memorial)

No one can take them out of my hand. (John 10:28)

What makes you feel vulnerable? Flying in an airplane? Being in a boat surrounded by large waves? Or is your fear most exposed in relationships, where you worry about being hurt or let down? Whatever triggers it for you, everyone has times of wondering if catastrophe is just around the corner.

Do you ever feel vulnerable in your relationship with God? It’s easy to worry that if you do or say the wrong thing, you may alienate him, and he may give up on you. Maybe you won’t even make it to heaven.

In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus confronts these fears head-on. Speaking about those who believe, he says, “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish. No one can take them out of my hand” (John 10:28). What a comforting reminder of God’s constant love!

It’s easy to think that we are the primary actors in our spiritual lives. But here Jesus is, reminding us that he is the one pursuing us, and he will not allow anyone or anything to steal us away from him. He even goes so far as to say, “My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all” (John 10:29).

God doesn’t want you to live in fear of rejection from him. He wants you to be more sure of his love for you than you are of anything else. That’s because his love is the most sure thing in all the world. You can live in security, safe in the knowledge that God is on your side, ready to forgive and restore you. He will stop at nothing to keep you in the palm of his hand.

Today, try taking a look at the times you feel most deeply vulnerable. Invite the Lord into these areas. Ask him to show you that he will protect you. Ask him to tell you that he has already forgiven you and restored you to your heavenly Father. Dwell on his greatness and his mercy so that you can put your fears into perspective. You are a child of God; you are safe in your Father’s hand!

“Jesus, I am in awe of the way you pursue me. I give my fears to you today; drive them out with your perfect love.”

Acts 11:19-26
Psalm 87:1-7