Do Not Be Afraid

    "Do not be afraid."  We hear that command several times in the resurrection and post-resurrection accounts.  In Matthew's telling of the story of Jesus' resurrection(chapter 28), the angel says it to the women at the tomb.  Jesus says it to the women again when he appears to them as they are on their way to tell the other disciples.
  It must be a fearsome thing to have an angel appear and speak to you and then, shortly after, Jesus appear (poof!) right in front of you when you know he died just a few days ago.
  Contrary to how the "undead" are portrayed on TV and in movies today, I don't think Jesus looked like a zombie or a vampire.  The women recognized Jesus immediately, fell at his feet and worshiped him (verse 9).  Perhaps they were afraid at these appearances, but perhaps they were afraid because of the Roman and Jewish authorities and what this might mean for Jesus' little band of followers.
  For reflection:  Am I afraid to believe Jesus rose from the dead? Am I afraid of what believing in Jesus might mean in my life?  Am I afraid to face Jesus?
  Let us pray.  Jesus,  risen Lord, I too am afraid.  I am afraid . . . .

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