2nd Sunday of Easter

This past Sunday, we heard from John 20:19-31, where the risen Christ entered the locked doors of our fear and doubt, breathing the Holy Spirit upon us to empower a mission of forgiveness and promising a blessing to all who believe without seeing.

There was a guest preacher, so no manuscript is available.

Reflection Questions:

1. In what ways do we "lock the doors" of our hearts or congregations out of fear today, and how does Jesus’ arrival through those barriers change our perspective?
2. Thomas is often called "doubting," but he is also the first to confess Jesus as "My Lord and my God." How does seeing Thomas as a "twin" to our own struggles help us understand that doubt and faith can coexist?
3. Jesus tells the disciples that if they forgive sins, they are forgiven. How does your daily life change if you view yourself as "sent" with the specific power to offer absolution and reconciliation to others?
4. Why is it significant for our faith that the resurrected Jesus still carries the wounds of the crucifixion?

Prayer:

Gracious God, we thank you that no locked door and no shadow of doubt can keep your presence from us. When we are paralyzed by fear, breathe your Holy Spirit into our weary lungs and speak your word of peace that surpasses all understanding. Grant us the courage of Thomas to bring our honest questions to you, and the joy of the disciples to recognize your face in our neighbors. Send us out as your apostles to be instruments of your mercy and voices of your forgiveness in a world desperate for new life. Through Jesus Christ, our Risen Lord, Amen.