do not be afraid

It has been a little over a year since I was carjacked in my driveway. There were two masked men, one grabbed me from the rear, the other pointed a gun at my head. I managed to get away without major injuries. They got the car and my purse.

Over the next few days, I retreated into a shell, like a turtle. Afraid to go outside alone and afraid of the dark, even though the carjacking happened in broad daylight. Family came to stay with us on Saturday as a helpful distraction, but early into the next week, it was clear to me that bouncing back was not going to happen soon.

On Thursday morning, exactly one week later, I made myself leave the house and go to Central to help with the showers and the laundry. Today I know and love many of the people from our unsheltered community, but a year ago most everyone was a stranger to me. I’m still trying to process exactly what happened, but that day at Central was a tipping point for me. I saw that I had a choice. I could retreat into fear of others, of strangers, or, do as Jesus told us over and over-- don’t be afraid. In the weeks afterwards, being among a loving community, caring for strangers and friends, worshiping together, helped to soothe my fear.

So, every week now, I revel in the opportunity that we have at Central to love our neighbors as ourselves. There is something about actively caring for another person, especially a stranger, that transforms a heart. It creates a kind of compassion for everyone, even for those that hurt you, that drives out fear.
 
I wish I could say that I have totally recovered my sense of safety. What I can say is that, like many others, I feel safe and loved at Central. Exactly what I need.