Day 242 - Matthew 10–12 Psalm 48

From the very beginning of Matthew’s Gospel, the words Do not be afraid set the tone for the story. Do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife (Matt. 1:20). Why are you afraid, O you of little faith? (Matt. 8:26). Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven (Matt. 9:2). Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well (Matt. 9:22). Have no fear of them… Do not fear those who kill the body… Fear not, you are worth more than many sparrows (Matt. 10:26, 28, 31). Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid (Matt. 14:27). Rise, and have no fear (Matt. 17:7). Do not be anxious about your life (Matt. 6:25). At the empty tomb: Do not be afraid (Matt. 28:5). And the risen Lord Himself said, Do not be afraid; go and tell (Matt. 28:10). From the manger to the mountain, from storm to resurrection morning, Matthew’s song is clear: Take heart, fear not, God is with us. In Matthew 10, Jesus sent out His twelve disciples, giving them authority to heal the sick, raise the dead, and drive out evil spirits. He told them to go first to the people of Israel and to depend on God’s provision rather than money or extra supplies. He warned them that following Him would bring rejection, even from their own families, but reminded them not to be afraid. In Matthew 11, John the Baptist, imprisoned, sent messengers to ask if Jesus truly was the Messiah. Jesus answered by pointing to His works: the blind see, the lame walk, and the poor hear good news. Jesus also warned towns that had seen His miracles but still refused to change their ways. Finally, He invited the burdened to come to Him, promising rest. In Matthew 12, The Pharisees accused Jesus when His disciples picked grain on the Sabbath. Jesus reminded them that mercy matters more than strict rules. People began plotting against Him, yet He continued healing and teaching. Later, He explained that a tree is known by its fruit, good hearts produce good words and actions. Psalm 48, This psalm praises God who is great and worthy to be praised. It describes Jerusalem as secure and beautiful because God Himself is her protector. The psalm closes with confidence: this God is our God forever.