This week's sermon explores how human beings use stories to make sense of their lives, noting that fear often acts as a deceptive narrator that can imprison the soul. Drawing on the work of Gareth Higgins, Pastor Eric uses the metaphor of a "snake" that is actually a rope to show how false authorities and anxiety can paralyze us. The text shifts to the baptism and temptation of Jesus, framing his refusal of power and ego as a rejection of the "slanderous voice" of fear in favor of an identity rooted in divine love. By acknowledging real-world tragedies and systemic violence, Pastor Eric argues that honoring one's fear can actually provide a portal to a deeper commitment to neighborly love. Ultimately, the message encourages listeners to replace small, fear-driven narratives with a larger story of irrevocable belovedness and courageous compassion.
