fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

In previous snippets, we considered how Isaiah and Mary were blessed when they saw our Lord.  Such blessings are not limited to individual experiences. When we gather together with other believers, in his name, we can collectively see him (with the eye of faith) and be blessed accordingly.

GLADNESS REPLACED FEAR (JOHN 20:19-23)

Shortly after our Lord spoke to Mary he appeared in the upper room (John 20:19-23).  Those who loved Jesus were there with the doors locked because they feared the Jews (perhaps they were reassuring and comforting each other that what they had seen was not the end).  Suddenly, our Lord appeared in the room and blessed them, giving them peace, and immediately their fear turned into gladness (John 20:20). In addition, he gave them a mission and gave them the Holy Ghost (the divine comforter).  This occasion shows us that when we are feeling afflicted, targeted and fearful, the best course of action is to seek the Lord! We enter into a realm where He has complete authority when we spend time meditating on the Bible and praying – it is there where gladness will replace every fear!

to be continued…