On Easter morning, when the women left the tomb after having spoken with the Angel, they encountered the risen Jesus. His first words to them were, "Don't be afraid." Perhaps someone should count all the times recorded in the Bible where we are told, "Don't be afraid." Over and over, when the unusual is encountered, we read, "Don't be afraid." What is it about an encounter with an Angel or Jesus or God a frightful thing?
Over and over we hear that our God is the God of love. Over and Over both Jesus and Paul tell us of God's love for us. Perhaps we should be counting all the times the Bible tells us this! Maybe both numbers will help us remember to be strong in our faith.
God is with us, walking with us through any situation, carrying us through the dark or shadowy times. God is with us during illness and does not abandon us in death. God is with us, multiplying our joys and dividing our sorrows. Don't be afraid!
