There Is No Reason To Fear

31 Mar

While they were still speaking about this,
he stood in their midst and said to them,
“Peace be with you.”
But they were startled and terrified
and thought that they were seeing a ghost.
Then he said to them, “Why are you troubled?
And why do questions arise in your hearts?
Look at my hands and my feet, that it is I myself.
Touch me and see, because a ghost does not have flesh and bones
as you can see I have.”  (Lk 24;36-39)

Yesterday, we reflected upon the two disciples who were on the road to Emmaus when they encountered the Risen Lord.

Today, the Gospel continues.

The two returned to Jerusalem to tell the apostles that Jesus was, indeed, alive.

As they were recounting their story, Jesus came and stood in their presence.

Instead of joy, they were overcome with fear.

Then Jesus said the words that were often associated with God entering the lives of His people:  Do not be afraid!

Why is it, do you think, that God has to tell us that so many times?

It seems that whenever God comes into our presence, the operative emotion is fear and not joy.

We continue the Octave of Easter today, celebrating the Day of Easter once again.

This day should fill us with joy.

FAITH ACTION:  If there is anything in your life that you dread, give that fear to Jesus and live, instead, in the incomparable joy of Easter!