The apostles had been broken and terrified men. They cowered behind locked doors, listening in dread for the footsteps of their persecutors. But after Pentecost, it was a different story. They were transformed, and they laughed in the face of bullying and death threats. After being dragged before the authorities, they were warned to keep their mouths shut and not proclaim the risen Jesus again. Their response was simple: whatever God wants, we do, and God wants us to continue our proclamation. Sometimes we can be overwhelmed with fear, but with God's spirit within us, we can do anything. Strength and joy come from doing the right thing and obeying the will of God.

The original shorter ending of Mark ended abruptly with the women running away and telling no one what they had seen, for they were terrified. It took the appearance of the Lord and his missioning speech to change their hearts and minds. Again, fear was powerful, but God can overcome all and make weak people into courageous witnesses for the faith. Alone and by our own efforts we can do little; with the Lord's grace, we can do just about anything. The world needs joyful and courageous witnesses.