Peace. Purpose. Power.
On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord. Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.” — John 20:19-23 Gracious Lord Jesus, my friend and my King, It's Sunday night. There are reports from Mary Magdalene, Peter, and John, that the tomb is empty and that you have been seen alive. But here are the disciples reacting to fear by locking themselves inside, afraid that the Jewish leaders are coming for them next. In the midst of their fear, you show up and announce, "Peace be with you!" Showing your hands a...