“Peace be with you.” John 20:19
Today we remember the man who refused to give in to the hate and injustice of his day. Martin Luther King, Jr, insisted that loving the enemy while walking in peace, was the way to go in a day when dogs and dogma attacked truth.
Today we live in a bewildered, broken, divided nation. Words and actions to and about family, neighbors, and people we don’t know have left us all feeling pain. Our grief in the loss of life, uncertainty, and the unknown is staggering.
Was the world any different for the followers of Christ after his crucifixion? The Romans had secured the torturous death of Jesus and wielded a firm hand over their empire. The Jewish religious leaders spoke their own version of truth and burdened their people with it. Those closest to the Messiah were bewildered, defeated, doubtful, and afraid in a locked room.
Then Jesus is suddenly standing in their midst and says:
“Peace be with you.”
He showed them his wounds. And the room was filled with marvel, joy, and wonder.
Jesus says again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I am sending you.”
Then he breathed on them and said,
“Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone’s sins, they are forgiven. If you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.” (John 20:19-23)
These words reverberate through the ages because Jesus still speaks to his followers. The chaos of the world still needs hope, rescue, tender mercy and grace.
Wherever you are in this moment, however you are feeling, whatever your specific circumstance:
“Peace be with you.”
Image Jesus’ breathing on you and saying:
“Just as my Father sent me, just as I sent my disciples, I’m sending you. Receive my Holy Spirit. Forgive those who have hurt you. Forgive those who have brought pain to your life, your home, your treasures.”
Today is a day to remember we are the ones who can move towards family and friends, into the neighbor with kindness, generosity, hope, forgiveness. Our neighbors, friends, and families need this sweetness. Our nation needs the sweet salt and light of Jesus.
Listen and welcome the words of the Prince of Peace.
“Peace be with you.”