Mixed emotions. We are full of them. We cry tears of sorrow and joy, in the same moment. The things that make us most excited also make us the most nervous—just ask a new parent. Yesterday, I felt relieved and sad at the same time. Our mixed emotions may seem illogical, but they are very real manifestations of all that is going on in our minds and hearts.
And spiritually speaking, many of our emotions and reactions do not make sense to the world. We rejoice when faced with trials, praise meekness, and consider blessed those who are poor in spirit.
As Christians, we even celebrate death! You know why? Because we see the power of the resurrection. The resurrection turned everything upside down.
After the resurrection, the mourning of the disciples was turned to gladness and their sorrow was turned to joy.
And, when the women approached the tomb and learned from the angel that Jesus had risen, we see that they were “afraid, yet filled with joy.”
What do you think made them feel afraid? Was their joy made complete because of their fear? Have you ever felt afraid, yet filled with joy?
The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.”
So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. ~ Matthew 28:5-9
So, today I ask, what do you fear? How does the resurrection bring joy to your fears? And how does the resurrection transform our reaction to all things?