The doors were locked. The disciples shut the door to hope and stood together locked in fear. Time with Jesus had lit their days as His presence brought them something more wonderful than religion— a relationship. Yet it was this relationship with Jesus that brought them into hiding, not wanting to be seen by those who had Him crucified. Fear is a powerful emotion, and a very human one, that is helped by presence. Jesus knows this and He comes to them.
“Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you” (John 20:19).
Wish I could have been a fly on the wall to see how that happened! I’ve got so many questions! Nonetheless, there Jesus stood and the locked door was not a limitation for the risen Jesus. There’s something there for each one of us. No matter where we are at or the state of our emotions, we are never beyond the reach of Jesus. He will find a way to be with us! Jesus had told them the truth and in this moment they experienced it. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give you as the world gives, Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27).
Afraid is not how Jesus intended His church to be. He intended them to be lights not hidden away, but shining the light of Christ by the way they lived their lives, by the way they loved. Jesus loved with His presence among them and He loves with His presence among us today.
Here are a few questions to ponder prayerfully:
Is there a door of your heart that you’ve been keeping shut?
Are you hiding the light of the Good News out of fear?
Are you aware Jesus is with you and offering you peace?
Jessica Klootwyk
Group & Women’s Discipleship Director