An Easter Message in The Midst of A Viral Pandemic

“….the angel said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid, for I know you seek Jesus who was crucified.’”

                                                                               – Matthew 28:1-10

Do you recall how this whole redemption story began?   An Angel came to Mary with the words “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God…you will bear a son, and you will call Him Jesus …for He will save His people.”   Do you also recall Joseph’s response to the news that Mary is pregnant – not by him … and was ready to leave her / divorce her; …but an angel appeared in his dream:  “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit; she will bear a son, and you shallcall his name Jesus, for he will save His people from their sins.  Over 103 times is the phrase “do not be afraid” used in sacred scripture.