As they (the disciples) were talking about these things, Jesus Himself stood among them, and said to them, "Peace to you!" (Luke 24:36).
Resurrection Monday
Read Luke 24:36-49.
The two Emmaus disciples are back with the disciples in Jerusalem sharing their experience. Suddenly, Jesus is standing right there in their midst. He immediately says, "Peace to you!"
But the disciples are gripped with fear. Had Jesus knocked on the door and walked into their midst, instead of suddenly appearing, no one would be suspecting it was a ghost standing among them. He immediately invites them to touch His flesh and bones so they can be convinced He is no ghost or spirit. He adds visual proof by eating a piece of broiled fish.
Once they are convinced He is risen, Jesus explains why He had to suffer, die and rise again. He not only appeals to Moses and the Old Testament prophets, He reminds them of the times He had foretold these things before His death. Then He opens their minds so they can understand what He accomplished by His cross and empty grave.
These are the witnesses He will send out into the world, but their eyewitness testimony alone will not be enough. The Holy Spirit will empower them and open the hearts of those who hear and read their words. Through these weeks of Lent we have read their eyewitness testimony. Through their eyes we have seen Jesus crucified and buried for us, and risen again in glory. May Christ's forgiveness, peace and eternal joy be yours until we see Him with our own eyes and touch Him with our own hands in Paradise.
THE PRAYER: Lord Jesus, thank You for the testimony of Your eyewitness disciples, and for sending Your Spirit to create and strengthen my faith through their words. Now send me as Your witness, that I may share Your suffering, death and resurrection-wherever You lead me. Amen.
Today's Bible Readings: Deuteronomy 11-13 Luke 4:31-44
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