Face Towards the Sunshine – How to “Fear Not” Through Mindful Photography

In the "Face Towards the Sunshine" practice, we experiment with hard contrasts and the Noir filter, remembering that God is in the shadows too. 

Introduction

As we step into September, a month of changing light and shifting seasons, I invite you to explore a practice that goes beyond photography—it’s about facing the challenges in our lives with intention and faith. This month, we'll focus on “Face Towards the Sunshine,” the second practice in the “Follow the Light” section of the Mindful Photography Field Guide. This practice teaches us how to respond to fear by connecting with the divine, even when shadows loom large.

The Bible commands us to “fear not” or “do not fear” around 365 times—one for each day of the year. This in itself is a remarkable reminder of God’s message to us. But how are we supposed to live out this command when fear arises over and over again in our daily lives? It’s crucial to understand that while we may be powerless over the initial arising of fear, we are fully equipped to respond by turning our face towards the sunshine—the true source of power.

Understanding “Do Not Fear” in Its Original Context

The phrase “Do not fear” appears in the Bible repeatedly, yet for many of us, fear remains a frequent companion. To fully grasp how we can live out this command, it’s essential to explore its original language—Greek, Hebrew, Aramaic, and Latin.

In Greek, the phrase “μὴ φοβοῦ” (mē phobou) is translated as “do not fear.” The word “phobos,” from which we derive the term “fear,” can also mean reverence or awe, particularly in a religious context. This indicates that the command isn’t just about suppressing fear but about choosing not to let fear dictate our actions. It’s an invitation to revere and trust in God, even when fear arises.

Similarly, the Hebrew word “yare” carries a dual meaning—it can refer to fear, but also to reverence and awe. When God tells us “do not fear,” it’s not about eradicating the natural emotion but rather about choosing to place our trust in Him above all else. The Aramaic language, spoken by Jesus, reinforces this duality, teaching that while fear may naturally arise, our response should be one of reverence and trust in God, redirecting that fear into a faith-filled action.

In Latin, the phrase “noli timere” translates directly to “do not be afraid.” Again, the emphasis is on resisting the power of fear rather than denying its existence. It’s about making a conscious choice to focus on God’s presence and sovereignty, even when circumstances provoke fear.

These linguistic nuances reveal a more profound understanding of “Do not fear.” It’s not a command to avoid feeling fear—it’s about acknowledging that while fear may arise, we are called to respond by turning our focus to God, who is greater than any fear we might face.

Turning Towards the Light—A Deliberate Response to Fear

With this deeper understanding, the practice of “Face Towards the Sunshine” becomes a powerful response to fear. It’s not just about physically turning towards light; it’s about making a deliberate choice to focus on God, the source of all light, even when life feels overwhelming. The well-known quote by M.B. Whitman, “Keep your face towards the sunshine and the shadows will fall behind you,” perfectly captures this principle.

Consider the story of Peter walking on water. This story isn’t just a miraculous event; it’s a powerful metaphor for our own struggles with fear. When Peter stepped out of the boat, his eyes were fixed on Jesus, and he walked on water, defying the fear and the turbulent waves. But the moment he looked down at the waves, allowing fear to take hold, he began to sink. This illustrates the power of our focus—where we direct our attention can either lift us above fear or cause us to sink into it.

This practice of turning towards the light—towards God—is a choice we must make daily, often moment by moment. It’s not about denying the existence of fear or shadows but about choosing to focus on the greater reality of God’s presence and power.

The Power of Words, Intention, and Creative Action

The teachings of Norman Vincent Peale on the power of positive thinking align closely with this biblical principle. Peale emphasized that even the smallest words of faith, spoken in the midst of fear, can activate God’s intervention in our lives. This idea is deeply rooted in scripture—where faith as small as a mustard seed is said to move mountains.

This is where the practice of mindful photography becomes not just a creative outlet but a spiritual discipline. When fear arises, the natural response might be to retreat, to dwell on the fear. But by engaging in creative action—such as mindful photography—we can transcend those fear patterns.

Mindful photography encourages us to focus on the light, to capture moments of beauty, stillness, and connection. This practice is a form of active meditation, where the act of taking a photo becomes a way to shift our focus from internal fears to the external world, where God’s presence is manifest in every detail of creation. It’s a portal to consciousness, a way to tap into God’s power, regardless of our circumstances.

God in the Shadows

While “Face Towards the Sunshine” encourages us to turn towards the light, it’s also crucial to recognize that God is present in the shadows as well. The original language nuances remind us that fear, in its reverential form, can lead us to a deeper relationship with God. We don’t deny the existence of shadows; instead, we acknowledge that God is with us in those dark places, guiding us back to the light.

There’s a profound comfort in knowing that God’s presence is not limited to the sunshine. He is equally present in the shadows, in the moments of fear and uncertainty. This understanding allows us to approach our fears not with denial but with a deeper trust, knowing that even in our darkest moments, we are not alone.

Transcending Fear Through Mindful Photography

Fear may arise naturally, but how we respond is within our control. Mindful photography offers a powerful way to transcend fear by actively engaging with the present moment and connecting with the divine. By focusing on the light—both literally and metaphorically—we can shift our attention away from fear and towards the beauty and presence of God in the world around us.

This isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about engaging in a practice that helps us align with God’s peace. When we take a moment to photograph a flower, a sunrise, or a simple beam of light, we’re doing more than capturing an image—we’re capturing a moment of stillness, a moment where we choose to focus on God’s goodness rather than our fears.

Conclusion

As we journey through September, let “Face Towards the Sunshine” be more than just a photographic practice—it’s a way of living. By understanding the deeper meanings behind “Do not fear” and applying this through mindful photography, we can find a path to inner peace. Whether you’re facing small anxieties or overwhelming fears, remember that even the smallest act of faith—like taking a photo—can turn your focus towards God and help you transcend fear’s grip. Through this practice, may you find the light that leads you to peace, both in the sunshine and in the shadows.

Blessings,
Joe