Resurrection does more than celebrate an empty tomb. In John 20, Jesus forms a community shaped by peace and forgiveness. To wounded disciples carrying fear, regret, and failure, Christ breathes the Spirit and sends them out. The church becomes a people learning to forgive others—and themselves—in a wounded world.
John 20:19-31 (2nd Sunday of Easter) – April 16, 2023
I honestly can’t recall someone preaching this way at a service that I’ve gone to, but I’ve often heard rumors that this text was used to preach about the negativity of fear and doubt for many decades: “Don’t doubt like Doubting Thomas.” Or why on earth are the disciples afraid and locked behind closed doors? Didn’t they hear the news from Mary? Jesus is risen! But, I have to say, as I look at this situation, I can relate to it.
Micah Krey 