Do not be afraid

Matthew 28:1-8
The Resurrection of Jesus
After the sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. And suddenly there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord, descending from heaven, came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. For fear of him the guards shook and became like dead men. But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He has been raised from the dead, and indeed he is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see him.’ This is my message for you.” So they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples.

Do not be afraid!

Really?

In the midst of pandemic

when all we know is upended

when all we love is at risk

How can we not be afraid?

You, O Lord,

whose every landmark moment

of life

and death

was accompanied by these words

Do not be afraid 

Whispered by the angel 

who visited Mary the mother of God

to announce your coming

Do not be afraid

Sung by a heavenly choir

to shepherds 
Do not be afraid

shouted over the wind and waves
to disciples on a stormy sea

Do not be afraid
spoken to Peter , James and John

on a mountaintop

Do not be afraid
Pronounced to women at the tomb

To disciples in a locked room

To fishermen on the beach

To those who witnessed the Ascension

Do not be afraid
You proclaim these words
Risen Christ
as a portent
to your merging heaven with earth
May we always see in these words
your presence
giving strength
your power
making a difference
your love
changing us
until we see the whole world
in the light of a loving creator
who knows us
who loves us
and who holds us fast
in risen power.
Do not be afraid