Do not be afraid

They say that the phrase “Do not be afraid” is repeated in the bible over 365 times, which is enough to remind us everyday to not be afraid and trust in God.

In the gospel today, the risen Christ appeared to Mary Magdalene and the other Mary, and his first words were “Do not be afraid.”

They were fearful yet overjoyed as they went away from the tomb. Why? Maybe because they were afraid of what Jesus would say to them or how he would react? Kung totoo ngang nabuhay sya, magagalit kaya sya pag nagkita sila dahil iniwan nila sya? Would they see a ghost that’s why they were afraid? Would Christ still remember them when he sees them? IS he really risen or did someone steal his body? Madaming tanong, takot sila. Yet they were overjoyed too – siguro nga nabuhay nga sya at totoo yung mga sinasabi nya dati… may pag asa pa! Baka nga panalo si God!

Jesus says these words to us today as well. Do not be afraid. Wag kang matakot kung di mo nasulit yung lent, yung holy week – pwede ka pang bumawi. Do not be afraid if you have not yet repented, I am always willing to forgive you. Do not be afraid if you deny me when it’s hard to stand up for the faith – like Peter, I will give you opportunities to make up for it, to show me and yourself that indeed, you love me. Do not be afraid of the scribes and Pharisees, they have not succeeded in killing me – I have risen! Do not be afraid of the enemy, though he may appear strong, I have won over him! I am stronger than him! These are some of the things Christ wants to reassure us today.

What are you afraid of? Have you surrendered all your fears to God, knowing you can’t fight the battle alone, and that you can only win with Him by your side? Do you have faith that He is more powerful than anything and that he will always be there for you?

Today, may we remember what Jesus says to us – Do not be afraid. He is with us. He is for us.

God bless!