Dreaded.
Dread is a useful motivating force. All those worldwide suffering from the economic downturn makes me think of all those who suffer in the best of times. There are many, and I am so small. I feel over-privileged and ashamed, and dread if I lose my income, my house, my possessions.

In times like these, hopeful words can seem like cold comfort. But if nothing else, they remind us of what matters. God's love for us has no bounds, nor does his eye move from us, nor is his cross for us one ounce heavier than he knows we can bear. It is unaffected by worldly things. He only asks us to listen to him and believe.

Remember the story of Peter on the lake, who, emboldened, struck out from the boat toward Jesus on the surface of the water. Then dread happened, as he realized it "should not be happening". His moment of dread was his downfall, literally.

And Jesus' hand was there for him. Just like it is for us. Dread is losing your way because you think you're in charge. Let God help you find the Way.