John 14:15-31. Three waves of reasons to NOT be afraid. Jesus is leaving the disciples soon. He has been their counter to fear so far, so how can they NOT be afraid without him? He gives three reasons they do not need to fear in his apparent absence. 

Matthew 28:1-10. If Jesus is the counter to fear, and he died, Jesus as a story, as someone who lived a long time ago and said and did cool stuff doesn't do anything for my fear right here and now. But Jesus, risen from the dead, alive TODAY, with me TODAY, loving me TODAY… if I think about it, that counters my fear TODAY…

Matthew 17:1-8. Sometimes Jesus told his followers not to fear, and he gave them reasons. Other times, like today’s passage, he showed them something and told them not fear as a result. Today, some of Jesus’ disciples see a glimpse of his glory, and the level Jesus really belongs on… That glimpse behind the curtain then is concluded with, “rise and have no fear.”

Matthew 14:22-27. What happens when faith overcomes fear? People walk on water. What might Jesus do with you, if your faith in him grew to overcome the fear that stops you from obeying him and taking steps to make disciples?

Matthew 10:26-33. Fear not, because the all-powerful, all-knowing creator of the universe is also your father, who loves you more than you can imagine. And if he is taking care of the sparrows, and none of them falls without him knowing, then you better believe he is taking care of you too. 

Mark 5:21-24, 35-43. Can you imagine the fear and pain of losing a child? Jesus' counter to fear is not only for the future, "the hope of glory" but it's for right now, for fears TODAY, in our minds and hearts, troubling us every day. This is one powerful example of Jesus as the counter to fear every day, and also for eternity. 

Matthew 6:25-34. Consider the birds and the lilies. They don't seem too worried about their next meal or promotion or outfit, but they still seem well fed and beautifully dressed. And then consider yourself, made in the image of God. Any chance he doesn't provide his absolute best for you?