"But Jesus came and touched them. 'Get up,' he said. 'Don't be afraid.'" - Matthew 17:7
Reflection
When the disciples heard the voice of God from the cloud, they fell face down to the ground, terrified. It is one of the most human moments in all the Gospels — strong men, flattened by glory, trembling in the dirt.
And what did Jesus do? He came and touched them. "Get up," he said. "Don't be afraid."
Notice that he didn't scold them for their fear. He didn't lecture them about faith. He touched them. In a moment of overwhelming terror, Jesus' first instinct was physical, tender contact — and words of reassurance.
We live in anxious times. Fear about the future, fear about health, fear about relationships and finances and what tomorrow holds. Jesus does not look at your fear with impatience. He walks toward you, places his hand on your shoulder, and says the same words: Get up. Don't be afraid. I am here. His gentleness with frightened people has never changed.
Reflection Question
What fear is most pressing in your life right now? Can you picture Jesus walking toward you in that fear rather than away from you?
Action Step
When you feel anxious today, pause and physically place your hand on your own shoulder as a reminder that Jesus reaches down to us. Repeat his words: "Get up. Don't be afraid."
Prayer
Lord, I confess that fear comes easily to me. Thank you that you don't stand at a distance from my anxiety. You come close. You reach down. Help me today to receive your touch and trust your words: don't be afraid. Amen.
See here to share just this Prayer for Don't Be Afraid.
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