No shame to feel fear

Two phrases were often spoken by Christ in the midst of the traumatic events of his final days on earth.  “Do not be afraid.”  “Peace to you”.  (John 14:25-31; 16:32-33; 20:19-23, 26-9; Matthew 28:1-10).  

These words are comforting to me because they show that Christ not only understands our fears but also does not chastise us for our fear. Therefore, we need not feel shame when we experience fear. However, we should not let fear paralyze us but we should act. That is the purpose of Christ's words.

And behold, Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.”  Matthew 28:9-10 

As Christ spoke then, so he speaks to us today. “Do not be afraid.” The Easter season is the time when the knowledge that Jesus is alive and powerful, conquers our fear. God is present within each follower of Christ through the Holy Spirit. Take courage! By faith take the next logical step forward.