Fear can bring out the worst in people, and rob us of joy, but people of faith can say with Isaiah, “Surely it is God who saves me; I will trust and not be afraid.”

We don’t need to be afraid, because God will bring about the redemption of the world, and of our own souls. In the meantime, we are to reflect God’s love in this world.

Our calling is to become more like Christ, by the grace of God.

To be chosen by God is a gift of God's grace and an occasion for deep gratitude, not a matter of pride.