HIS GOSPEL IS PEACE DAY 16

 

December 16, 2024

 

John 20:19-21

On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord.

Put yourself in the disciples of Jesus' place for a moment. Think about it this way: You have been a part of an extraordinary movement led by an inspiring leader Everywhere you go, lives are transformed. The Promises of the Messiah you have heard about from your youth are being fulfilled. But what your leader is saying and doing provokes anger in many people. So much so, that they are actively plotting a way to "take him out."

And then it happens. All of it seemingly comes to an end, as your leader is arrested and killed. And now you fear they are coming for you. Things are crumbling down around you. What do you do?

Generally, in such circumstances you choose one of two things: you hide, or you fight. Fear sets in, and leads us away from trusting others,  and into relying on ourselves. And if we rely on ourselves, well, I think we all know the result of that endeavor is not one of peace but rather a time of disorder, confusion and chaos.

This is where the disciples find themselves. Overwhelmed by their fear, they lock themselves away. They seek to save themselves by any means necessary. Locked doors may temporarily keep fear at bay, but they cannot prevent Jesus from entering. And so the risen Jesus appears in the midst of their fear and hiding to proclaim his peace.

“Peace be with you.” Jesus says. This is the same promise sung by angels at his birth, for Christ’s peace alone is  a reality, not just some wishful thinking. We need to always remember that no matter what fear has caused you to do or say, Jesus stands present with us, our resurrected leader, and in his power and authorty, says "Peace be with you." 

Our faith in Christ means fear is no longer coming from you. Fear is no longer running our life. So we don’t have to hide, nor do we have to fight it on your own. Jesus our Savior has granted us his peace. Now, let us go and live freely as God intends. Come out from our hiding place, drop our weapons, and go and live freely in the peace of Jesus. 

Thank you, Jesus, 

for freeing us from our fears 

and giving us your peace 

to live, to work, and to love those around us. Amen