Sermon: May 10, 2026

Readings: Acts 17:22-31 / 1 Peter 3:13-22 / John 14:15-21

In the gospel reading, Jesus tells us, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” And we know what that commandment is: love one another as I have loved you.

Jesus tells us it is possible because he has not left us orphaned and alone. He has sent an advocate, a comforter, a counselor, a helper who comes alongside us.

So maybe the question we need to ask ourselves is this: what is shaping my life more right now, fear, or the hope found in the love of Jesus Christ?

Because whatever fills your heart eventually spills into your words, your actions, and the way you treat others. If your heart is ruled by fear, fear will shape your life. But if your heart is filled with Christ, if your heart is rooted in the deep assurance that you are loved by God, never abandoned by Christ, and held by the Holy Spirit, then love begins to spill out.

That is hope, and that kind of hope is exactly what this world needs to see. Especially when that world is constantly asking, “Who should I fear?” the hope we have in Jesus gives us the courage to answer faithfully, “Jesus is with me, and fear does not have the final word.”

And in a world that asks, “Who is my enemy?” that same hope teaches us to answer, “Look closer, that’s my neighbor. And Jesus calls me to love them.”

And we can live that way, loving instead of fearing, showing mercy instead of hatred, because we know we are not doing it alone.

So when life becomes uncertain, when the world feels like it’s closing in, and fear begins to whisper that you are alone…
remember the promise of Christ:

You are not abandoned.
You are not alone.
I am with you.