Fw: Rise, and have no fear

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: Rob Smith <toanosmith@yahoo.com>
To: Rob Smith <rsmith@mycwa.com>
Sent: Monday, July 31, 2017 7:17 AM
Subject: Rise, and have no fear

Matthew 17: 7 But Jesus came and touched them, saying, "Rise, and have no fear." 8 And when they lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only.

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Peter, James and John had just witnessed a miracle.  They had accompanied Jesus up to the top of a mountain.  There they saw Jesus dramatically change in appearance.  His face shone very brightly and his clothes became very light...as if they were illuminated.  Then they watched as Jesus actually spoke with Moses and Elijah, who appeared out of Heaven.  On top of all that...God, Himself, spoke and told them to listen to Jesus.  I don't think they knew how to act or react.  Peter offered to set up a tent for each of these heavenly figures.  And then Jesus came and touched them and told them to get up and be without fear.

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It isn't likely that we will experience a "transfiguration" like Peter, James and John.  However with every day we face many unknowns.  In a sense every day starts with a question mark...What will this day bring?  How will I cope with the day?

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It is a good reminder that Jesus comes to you and touches you and says, "Rise and have no fear".  We need the assurance that there is one who is greater than we are, who knows the beginning from the end and who has our very best in mind.  And when we lift up our eyes we too will see no one but Jesus.  We may not see a "transfiguration" but we can surely experience a transformation.