Matthew 28:8 (NLT)

“The women ran quickly from the tomb. They were very frightened but also filled with great joy, and they rushed to give the disciples the angel’s message.”

What an irony! “They were very frightened but also filled with great joy.” I cannot explain this irony of being afraid and joyful at the same time. It’s like a young bride leaving her father’s home for the home of a man she is newly married to. She’s happy to be with him, but also afraid of the new life ahead of her.

When Jesus reveals Himself to us in a new way and then sends us off with a dangerous message to our world, this is usually the reaction we get. We are called into a new life of faith, which is scary because we have not been there before; but we are also filled with His “great joy.” I believe that the reason we obey and follow despite the fright is that the joy overwhelms the fear. The joy of Jesus appearing to us is so great and beautiful, that the fear of the implications of the call loses their grip over our souls. Focus on the joy. There are scary aspects of following and obeying Jesus but focus on the joy that’s ahead of you. Again, I say, “focus on the great joy” of knowing that God has chosen you to bear His message forward.

“Father, I am indeed honored that You even considered me to be an instrument in Your agenda for these last days. I am flattered and humbled and filled with great joy. I am also afraid because I cannot afford to fail You. Lord, I need Your special grace to stay faithful and joyful as I bid Your command. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.”