EASTER II

April 11, 2021

“Prove It!”      

For those of us who understand and process information when it’s presented in a straightforward, chronological fashion, the Gospel accounts of events following Jesus’ resurrection are, shall we say, a little challenging.       Matthew tells only of Jesus instructing his disciples to go to Galilee, where he would meet them.  When they were gathered together, we’re told that some worshiped him, but some doubted.  Jesus then tells them to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching (known as “The Great Commission”.)       

The Gospel of Mark tells of the risen Christ appearing to two of the disciples, but when they told the rest, they were not believed.  A little later, Jesus appears to the eleven and reprimands them for not believing those who saw him.  This book, too, ends with the command to proclaim the good news to the world.       

The Gospel of Luke provides more information, telling of the women at the tomb, a detailed account of two disciples walking along the road to the village of Emmaus, conversing with an interesting stranger, not realizing it was Jesus until they sat down to eat, and he broke and blessed the bread.  Not much later, Jesus appeared to his disciples, spoke with them, showed them his wounds, and shared a meal.  At the end of the gospel, in Chapter 24, Jesus speaks of his suffering, death and resurrection, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins is to be proclaimed in his name to all nations.     

The Gospel of John (Ch.20:24-29) tells the familiar story of “doubting Thomas” who was not with the other disciples that first night after the discovery of the empty tomb.  When they told him of Jesus’ appearance in their midst, he was adamant that he wouldn’t just accept their word that Jesus had truly arisen.  He said he had to see the nail prints and the mark of the sword before he would believe.  It was enlightening to read of questioners and doubters in the other gospels, as Thomas has a somewhat unfair reputation for being “the one” who was skeptical of the reality of a risen Christ.  Doubts and questions, wondering and uncertainty are common human emotions, and Thomas displayed those characteristics in this story.  He wasn’t wrong, he wasn’t being contrary, he was struggling to comprehend a life-changing event, and he was turning to Jesus for the truth and assurance of what had happened.     

And so Jesus came to his followers, quietly, intimately, in small groups and in private places.  He came with a blessing of “Peace be with you,” and with the promise that the Holy Spirit would be coming soon to guide and strengthen them.  He encouraged them and promised that even when he was no longer physically present, he was with them always.  As spring arrives with signs of new life all around us, may we be filled with joy and gratitude for the new life we have every day in our risen Lord. 

Christ is risen!  Alleluia!  

Your friend in Christ,

Mary Rogers