The new person Saul had become was unknown to the disciples, and they were afraid. The disciple’s fear of the unknown reminds me of an experience I had in college, the first day of freshman year. There was an evening social where everyone went to meet other people. It was a soccer field full of watermelon and anxiety. People were too nervous to look each other in the eyes. Finally, I turned to the person next to me and said, “Wow, this is the most awkward event I have ever been to.” And suddenly the ice was broken, and he and I started making friends.

Back to school can be a time when everyone is anxious and nervous, especially if you are surrounded by people you don’t know. It is important to calm down and look for friends, to remember that everyone else is also nervous and looking for friends.

And when we start sharing stories with others, we may be able to move a little more freely and speak a little more confidently.

By Randall Curtis from D365