When Jesus told his disciples that he was going away, they had mixed feelings. One of the prominent feelings as Jesus noticed was fear. Firstly, they were afraid of losing their master, and as a result their position of being the apostles, they had slowly began enjoying being with Jesus. Secondly, they may have been guilty and sad that they could not reach up to the expectations of their master. They were afraid.
What is noteworthy is the response of Jesus, “Do not be afraid.” Jesus was a man of empathy. He had the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. As the disciples were a bit guilty, scared and down, Jesus could have easily made them more frightened, more guilt-ridden. Instead of taking a condescending position, he stands with them, comforting them.
In our spiritual activities, preaching, and ministry, we find people, who have sinned, failed, and thus not having enough confidence to look up. Do not further frighten them with a god who is a judge and executer; do not make them guiltier. Implanting fear and guilt can make a religion sick. Instead tell them do not be afraid; instil in people peace and love. Let people know peace and a God who loves.
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