A Teddy Bear Like Jesus

“ But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my
name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said
to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as
the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

(John 14:26-27)

Is anyone here afraid of the dark? Well, believe it or not, lots of children
are afraid of the dark! Do you know what often makes people feel better
when they are afraid? What usually helps is when someone doesn’t feel
alone or when someone doesn’t feel like they are the only one who is afraid.
Children often use teddy bears or other stuffed animals to hug when they
feel afraid. Some people use their pets to help them feel less alone and less
afraid.
We are all afraid at times. It is nothing to be ashamed of; even adults
are sometimes afraid. Some adults may be afraid of the dark. Some may be
afraid of the thunder and lightning that comes with a storm. I know some
adults who fear strong winds. I have two major fears. I am afraid of public
speaking and I’m also afraid of dental appointments. But I have a special
way to help myself feel less afraid. I carry a cross in my pocket or I hold a
cross in my hand. It helps me feel like I’m not alone and less afraid.
When Jesus told His disciples that He was going to return to His Father,
they were afraid. What would happen to them? Would the enemies recognize
them as His followers and try to harm them?
Jesus knew that His disciples were afraid and He offered these words to
comfort them. "I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. Don't
be troubled or afraid. Remember what I have told you: 'I am going away,
but I will come back to you again. I will come and get you, so that you will
always be with Me.'"
These words were a great comfort to His Disciples and they are a great
comfort to us today. When Jesus returned to His Father in heaven, He asked
God to send the Holy Spirit to comfort His disciples until the day when He
returned. That includes you and me! What a wonderful gift Jesus has given
us: peace of mind and heart. We no longer have anything to fear. Whenever
we find ourselves in the dark or in the storms of life, Jesus is with us.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father,
You are an Awesome God! You love us, no matter what! You lovingly give us
everything we need! Today, we especially thank You for the Holy Spirit who
guides us, calms our fears, and gives us peace so that we never have to feel
alone or be afraid. And we also thank You for the promise that one day we
will be in Heaven with Jesus. Please help us, Dear God to remember to share
these things with everyone we meet.
In His Holy Name, we pray, Amen.