Gerard Van Honthurst: Adoration of the Shepherds
Matthew: Do Not Fear – Part XII
Friday, January 12, 2024
Jesus prepares his followers for his own exodus from the mortal life to the eternal. After taking Peter, James and John up the mountain to witness his own transfiguration, he tells them words that engender hope, the words he always tells us: Do not be afraid.
And Jesus came to them and touched them and said, “Get up, and do not be afraid.” (Matthew 17:7)
Jesus feels compassion for the women who tend to him so faithfully. Knowing that their fidelity is an exemplar to all of us, Jesus says the words he says to all of us: Do not be afraid.
The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; for I know that you are looking for Jesus who has been crucified. (Matthew 28:5)
Jesus feels deep love for those who want to follow him, knowing that their journey will be difficult. To them and to us Jesus lovingly says: Do not be afraid.
Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and take word to my brethren to leave for Galilee, and there they will see me.” (Matthew 28:10)
Years after Jesus tells those closest to him that he wants to bring unity out of division, he tells each of us that he wants to erase all fear and division. Jesus tells all of creation that fidelity helps us to see how love converts all harm to good, hope sustains all life through turmoil, and love brings all light from darkness.
Today we might ask, “How can we bring faith, hope and love into our lives every day as we are poised to begin a new year?”
Although Christmastide has closed, we continue to reflect on the many ways God says to us, “Do not be afraid. I live within you always”.
Image from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Gerard_van_Honthorst_-_Adoration_of_the_Shepherds_%281622%29.jpg
The Noontimes 
