Fear Not 220

Dear friends in Christ, as we journey through our #FearNot220 series, let us pause at verse #171: '...they departed quickly from the tomb... with fear and great joy...' (Matthew 28:8). Oh, what a profound moment this is! The women, having encountered the angel at the empty tomb, rush forth with hearts pounding in a beautiful blend of awe-struck fear and overflowing joy. It's the Resurrection's dawn, where death is conquered, and hope bursts forth like the first light of Easter morning. In this sacred scene, we see the human heart laid bare—fear of the unknown, mingled with the exhilaration of divine promise fulfilled. St. John Chrysostom, that golden-tongued Father of the Early Church, reflects on this in his Easter homily, reminding us that such fear is not cowardice but a holy reverence, a trembling before the majesty of God's power. He urges us to let this joy propel us, just as it did those faithful women, to proclaim the Good News without hesitation. How fitting, for Chrysostom himself faced exile and trials, yet his words echo eternally: 'Let no one fear death, for the Savior's death has set us free.' In their footsteps, we too can embrace this paradoxical emotion, allowing it to draw us closer to the Risen Lord. Think of your own life, beloved. Perhaps you're standing at the edge of a new chapter—a job change, a health challenge, or a relationship in flux. That knot of fear in your stomach? It's real, it's human. But remember the women at the tomb: their fear didn't paralyze them; it coexisted with great joy, spurring them to action. In our daily walks, we might feel that same mix when stepping out in faith—volunteering at the parish, forgiving a wrong, or simply trusting God's plan amid uncertainty. I've seen it in the quiet courage of a young mother facing an unexpected pregnancy, her tears of worry transforming into smiles of hopeful anticipation, echoing the tomb's miracle. These moments remind us that fear, when surrendered to Christ, becomes a gateway to deeper joy. So, let us not shy away from our fears, but let them be infused with the great joy of the Resurrection. Run quickly, as they did, to share the light of Christ with the world. Fear not, for He is risen, and in Him, all things are made new. May this Easter truth fill your hearts today and always. Pax Christi! #FearNot220 #171of220 #Catholic