Part 4 of 6 of the theme 'On Easter-resurrection-resurrection  by Gijs van den Brink

Fear is of all times and so is our reaction to fear. There are two familiar reactions. We also see them at the crucifixion of Jesus. In the last week of Jesus' life, tension increases. Jesus has warned His disciples that they will all be in trouble because of Him. It is the day before the crucifixion. They are in the garden of Gethsemane and all stressed. Then Judas comes with an army of soldiers to capture Jesus.

We see immediately the first reaction. Peter's fear expresses itself in anger. He does not think for a moment, draws his sword and cuts off an ear of one of the soldiers (Mat. 26:51).
Fear can just and easily turn into anger. You don't think, but you start beating around the bush. This is very dangerous and it could have meant his death. But Jesus corrects him and saves him: "Put away that sword Peter. Jesus heals the soldier's ear.

We see another reaction among the other disciples: they flights (Mat. 26:56). That is the second reaction to fear: flee. You withdraw and isolate yourself. That too does not remove the fear. You take yourself away. And you are also all alone. The love of others can no longer reach you. Fear rules.
Dear brothers and sisters: Do you want to be freed from fear? The only response that is good and helps is: pray. Lay all your fears at the feet of Jesus. Speak it clearly. Name each fear concretely. Like Jesus did in the garden. He prayed: , "Father let this cup of suffering pass to me, if it is possible. But not my will, but let your will be done".
And what happened? God sent an angel to encourage him.
Name your fears and lay them before Jesus, at the foot of the cross. Jesus has risen from the dead; He has gained the victory. God has laid all those things you fear at His feet. He is eager to set us free.

And soon Jesus will come back. And then he will set us free from the presence of sin, from all sin and sin powers. Then all sickness and sin will be taken away!

Author: Gijs van den Brink

This is part 4 of 6 of the series "On Easter-resurrection-resurrection" Some of which we will be posting online in the near future. We hope this will help you understand the Bible better!