Author: Beth Zanotelli, Family Life Coordinator for the Diocese of Palm Beach
Each of us has a chronicle, a story—an unfolding account of God’s work in our lives. But too often, we forget that we are the ones writing and co-authoring our journey with Him. The world moves fast, distractions pull us in different directions, and fear creeps in, whispering that we are not enough or that our path is uncertain. In the rush of life, we risk forgetting not only where we are going but also why we are here. God has not forgotten. He has written His truth on our hearts, calling us to live with boldness and trust. Pope Benedict XVI reminds us:
“Do not be afraid of Christ. He takes nothing away, and He gives you everything. When we give ourselves to Him, we receive a hundredfold in return.” (Homily/Sunday, 24, April 2005)
We are not meant to live in fear. Our lives are part of something greater—a divine chronicle woven into God’s eternal plan. The question is, will we trust Him with the pen?
God is Love. He is the very foundation of our existence and the center of our Christian story. Out of His infinite love come you and me. Everything God made is good, and we are created by Him, in His image and likeness. When we forget this truth, we lose sight of our worth and the purpose of our journey. But when we embrace it, we begin to see our chronicle as part of His greater story of love and redemption.
When fear tempts us to doubt, we need to remember that our lives are a reflection of His love. In 1 John 4:16, we find assurance that “God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him”. We were made for love, to love, and to be loved by our Creator. Every moment—both the joyful and the difficult—has meaning. Even when we don’t see the full picture, God is working. He knows the plans He has for us, and He calls us to trust. The Prophet Jeremiah makes this clear, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future”. – Jeremiah 29:11
Fear tells us to hesitate, to stay in our comfort zones, to question whether we are worthy. But God calls us forward. When we trust Him, we step into the fullness of our story—a life lived with faith, courage, and purpose. Fear holds us back, but trust and truth set us free. Think of the disciples. They were ordinary people, just like us. They doubted, they feared, they hesitated. But when they trusted Jesus, their lives became a testimony of God’s power. Fear may whisper, what if I fail? But God answers, do not be afraid, for I am with you.
“Fear not, I am with you; be not dismayed, I am your God; I will strengthen you, and help you, and uphold you with my right hand of justice.” – Isaiah 41:10
Where is fear holding you back? What would it look like to fully trust God with your chronicle? Take time to stop and wonder how God is working in Your Life. Pause and reflect on your life—the joys, struggles, the unexpected turns. Where do you see God’s hand? Perhaps even take a moment to journal about how He is moving in your life today. Whether you are in a season of abundance or uncertainty, know that God is present in your chronicle. He is writing something beautiful—even in the chapters that seem unclear.
Go and Make Disciples! Our story is not just for us. It is meant to be shared. The greatest stories of faith inspire others to seek God, to trust Him, and to step into their own purpose. Jesus gave us a mission: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” – Matthew 28:19
How can you share your faith? Maybe it’s through a simple conversation, an act of kindness, or even by living in a way that reflects Christ’s love. Your story, that is, the Chronicle of You, has the power to point others to Him. Trust God with Your Chronicle. You are living a chronicle of faith, one that is unfolding each day. Do not let fear write your story—let trust in God shape your path. He has great plans for you. Open the doors of your heart, and let Him in. Now, take up your pen. Chronicle His goodness. Trust His purpose. And go forth in faith.
Here’s What Scripture Has to Say:
Psalm 56: 3-4 – My foes treat me harshly all the day; yes, many are my attackers. O Most High, when I am afraid, in you I place my trust.
2 Timothy 1:7-8 – For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control. So do not be ashamed of your testimony to our Lord, nor of me, a prisoner for his sake; but bear your share of hardship for the gospel with the strength that comes from God.
John 14:27 – Peace, I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your heart be troubled or afraid.
Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart, on your own intelligence, rely not; In all your ways be mindful of Him, and He will make straight your paths.