From today’s Scripture: “Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went away quickly from the tomb, fearful yet overjoyed, and ran to announce the news to his disciples. And behold, Jesus met them on their way and greeted them. They approached, embraced his feet, and did him homage. Then Jesus said to them, ‘Do not be afraid.’”—Mt 28:8-10

Fear and worry are powerful emotions that can not only weigh us down but, in some instances, almost paralyze us. Is it any wonder, then, that the greeting of the resurrected Jesus is, “Do not be afraid”? The disciples were paralyzed by fear. They were still in shock after having witnessed the fate of their beloved master.

Behind locked doors and burdened hearts, they gathered in confusion and grief, unsure of what the future held. Into that fear, Jesus instructs Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to share with his disciples that they will encounter him, the risen Christ, which will replace their fear with peace. Shalom: wholeness, restoration, the assurance that God is still present even when everything familiar has been shaken.

Let us pray: Jesus, my Lord and my God. Send your Holy Spirit upon me too so that I might not be overcome with fear but know your shalom.

Today’s author is Father Dan Dorsey, president of Glenmary Home Missioners.

Free delivery!  Sign up to receive this in English or in Spanish daily by email.