It is natural to want to feel safe and protected, especially when we are weak or vulnerable. The Israelites had been exposed to all sorts of dangers, especially attacks from her enemies. Eventually the city was destroyed and they were led into exile. Now Isaiah is reassuring them that God has not forgotten them. He will be the source of their comfort and protection, and justice will be the shield around them. As long as their society is just and upright, all will be well. We cannot draw our strength and courage from force, power, or material possessions. The best antidote for our own fear and weakness is to trust totally in God and walking in His ways. And those ways are clear - justice and compassionate service to others. Loving others is an effective tool for dispelling the darkness of fear.

Talk is easy, but when we face hardship and difficulty we will find out what we are really made of. Sometimes people who make a great show of religiosity discover that they are empty inside and lacking character. Jesus warns against using our faith like a good luck charm. Merely being religious is of little use unless we are willing to be transformed by God's Spirit. This happens when we put the teachings of the Lord into action. Day by day, we become more just and loving people, grounded deeply in God's love. And that is the source of our strength. Nothing will ever be able to overcome us.