“For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7).

Grace and peace to you, Church Family,

I am Pastor Sophia. This past week reminded me how quickly fear can enter our daily lives. A storm rolls in. Suddenly we find ourselves asking very practical questions: What if the power goes out? What if I need help? What if I can’t do what I used to do? These are not abstract worries—they are real, everyday concerns many of us carry quietly.

Scripture speaks honestly into moments like these. Paul writes to Timothy, a young and tired pastor, saying: “For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7).
Paul does not pretend fear doesn’t exist. Instead, he reminds Timothy—and us—where fear does not come from. Fear is not God’s gift. God’s gift is the Spirit who strengthens us to face what is in front of us today.

Over and over again, the Bible repeats the same gentle command: “Do not fear.” Jesus says it to the disciples when they are locked behind doors, afraid of what might happen next: “Peace be with you” (John 20:19).

Peace was not a theory for them—it was God’s presence. Jesus stood among them and breathed the Holy Spirit upon them.

That same Spirit is with us now.

As we prepare to worship together this Sunday, I invite you to come honestly. Come with your worries. Come with your tired bodies. Come with your questions about tomorrow. The psalmist reminds us, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).
Not a distant help. A present one.

I am also grateful for the ways I have seen God’s Word lived out among you—through neighbors helping neighbors, through quiet check-ins, through small acts of kindness that reflect God’s love in powerful ways. This is who we are called to be as the church.

I look forward to gathering with you this Sunday. You will see fear does not have the final word. Christ does. Christ brings life, hope, and peace that cannot be shaken.

Until then, may the Lord make His face shine upon you and give you peace (Numbers 6:24–26).

p.s. Every Wednesday, we can experience God’s peace at our prayer meeting.
—
Sophia (Seung Hae) Yoo-Hess

Pastor of Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church

43987 Little River Turnpike, Chantilly, Virginia
Office) (703)3274461