“Rise and have no fear” sticker

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This is one of my favorite verses in the Bible, found in the account of the Transfiguration in Matthew’s gospel; Mt 17:1-8

During the Transfiguration of Jesus, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain apart from the other Apostles. When they reach the summit, Jesus’ clothes transform to a dazzling white, his face shines like the sun, and Moses and Elijah appear on either side of Jesus and speak to Him. Place yourself in this moment next to Jesus’ closest friends. This simple man whom you nonetheless know to be the Messiah, the promised one, shows you his true glory. The greatest men of your Bible (the Old Testament) whom you know were taken into heaven upon their deaths, appear and speak to Jesus as friends.

Peter remembers the words of the Scriptures and offers to make tents – to provide a place for these men to stay and remain. But hardly before Peter finishes speaking when a cloud comes over them and a voice from Heaven booms out saying “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him”. Peter, James, and John fall to the ground and cover their faces.

Pause for a moment. The Father just said to listen to Jesus. Here is the perfect opportunity for Jesus to say something important. To sum up His mission. He goes to His apostles, lays His hands on them and says; “Rise, and have no fear”.

Rise. Stand up and live your faith. Jesus lifts us out of the mud of our sin and gives us new life. Rise up. And have no fear. Be not afraid. The glory of God is so great it terrifies. The evil of the world is so great it terrifies. But be not afraid of the evil for God is with you. And be not afraid of your own littleness next to the glory of God for God chooses to be with you.

Every morning start with these words. At every moment of the day, stand up and trust in Jesus. Fix your eyes on Him and have no fear.