1 Peter, 5.: “Cast all your worries upon him because he cares for you.

8 Be sober and vigilant. Your opponent the Devil is prowling around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

9 Resist him, steadfast in faith, knowing that your brothers and sisters throughout the world undergo the same sufferings.”

The theme of this reading from First Peter resonates. It lays it out plainly, the fundamentals of faith: do not let worries drag you down; be vigilant as you go through each day, mindful of evil, and realize, and remember, you are not alone. Indeed, God is with you, always; that was His promise; that’s why He came.

But that does not mean it is easy; that does not mean life is easy; that does not mean you will always be treated fairly; that does not mean difficulty, tragedy will not befall you.

Rather it means, regardless of how your life unfolds, you can persevere. Be humble; be steadfast; be aware of the danger in the world but not paralyzed by it.

You are not alone in this world.

Never alone.