Fear is often used to control people and to prevent them from speaking the truth. Fear is a very powerful weapon. The authorities threatened Peter and the apostles and ordered them to keep silent about Jesus and about the healing that had been done in his name. At this point they could have all retired to a quiet and peaceful life - but that would not even have been a life! They could not keep silent - the joy and wonder in them just could not be contained. When we are truly obeying God - a power far superior to any earthly power - we lose our fear and are filled with courage and wisdom.

For a while, fear and doubt prevented the followers of Jesus from proclaiming the Good News. They just could not believe that he was alive. The resurrection was just as difficult to believe then as it is now. But then they had their proof: Jesus himself. And that is the key - we cannot convince anyone of the resurrection unless it is evident in our own lives. Jesus told them to go out and give the joyful news to all creation - and that doesn't necessarily mean by words. Actions and attitudes are often far more eloquent and convincing than words. We must become the living proof for the Risen Lord we proclaim.