'What if something bad happens?' Why we shouldn't give in to fear and wait to celebrate

What if I dream and I’m disappointed? What if my hope only leads me to heartache? What if I give it my best effort and I fail? What if I pursue a deep connection and I’m rejected? These are just a few of the "what-if" questions that can plague our minds as we stand on the precipice of a new year or new season.

Part of our apprehension as we stare into the expansive unknown of the future is wondering whether or not we will be given a reason to feel joy or whether or not circumstances will...