Scripture Reading
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. Jesus said to them again, 'Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.'
Reflection
Behind locked doors, paralyzed by fear, the disciples encountered the risen Christ — and his first word was peace. He didn't rebuke their doubt or shame their hiding; he simply came and stood among them with the gift of peace. The same Christ enters our locked rooms today, into our fear and confusion, and offers that same peace. And then, having given peace, he sends us out to give it to others.
Prayer for Today
Blest are you, Lord our God, who gathers us together in Jesus' name. We thank you for sharing your life with us, both in this meal and in all the ways you sustain us, through Christ, our Risen Lord.
Amen.