Reflection: John 20:19-31

Second Sunday of Easter – John 20:19-31

On this 2nd Sunday of Easter, Jesus’ disciples were gathered. Despite the fact that the disciples knew that Jesus had risen, John writes that they had locked the door of the room, for fear of the Jews. They were fearful of Jews! Why were the disciples afraid? Jesus had died on the cross and none of them had been harassed or accosted since Jesus’ death. Yet they continued to be fearful, not joyful!

Suddenly, Jesus appears in their midst. Did Jesus’ appearance bring peace and joy to their hearts? Or were they confused, frightened and yet also joyful? Jesus addresses the disciples with the simple words: “Peace be with you!” When the disciples heard Jesus’ greeting, did peace begin to fill their hearts? As they began to grasp the reality that Jesus was with them once again, were they filled with joy and wonder? Jesus truly was present in their midst. What a wondrous gift!

Remember a time in your life when were fearful, sad and perhaps lost. It may have been there was a significant loss or change in your life. Or perhaps you were struggling with a painful situation. At these times, it would be a great gift if Jesus suddenly appeared before us and said: “Peace be with you.” Most likely, Jesus did not appear before you! However, was there any sense of Jesus’ presence with you? Did you experience grace of strength from your faith in Jesus? Perhaps your belief simply enabled you to keep on going. Jesus is always with us, gifting us and gracing us! However, we may not tangibly experience Jesus with us. Most likely, he will not appear before us. Jesus walks with us daily! Do we believe and trust that reality?

However, we also have a “Thomas, the doubter” within us. Even if we have a sense of Jesus’ presence, we definitively may desire that this truly is Jesus. We want proof, just as Thomas did. Today if we sense Jesus is near us or with us, may we trust and believe that Jesus also has appeared to us! May we have open minds and open hearts! Jesus will come!