John 20:19-23
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. If you haven’t read the Introduction to John’s Gospel, read it here.
As read John 20:19-23, keep in mind that Jesus has risen from the grave and has already appeared to Mary Magdalene and instructed her to tell the disciples that he is alive.
When he saw the empty tomb, John believed the Scriptures that said the Messiah would rise again. Mary followed Jesus’ instructions and told the disciples that Jesus was alive and would soon ascend to the Father. But now the disciples are gathered in fear behind locked doors.
When Jesus appears to the disciples, he speaks peace over them with the very voice that spoke creation into existence. And when Jesus speaks, things always change. The disciples see the wounds inflicted on the body of Jesus just two days earlier, and they all believe. Their fear is turned to joy.
What do you need Jesus to speak over you today? Share this with him and then listen in silence for a moment.
Read John 20:19-23 again noting the condition of Jesus’ resurrected body.
Presumably Jesus could have chosen a healed resurrection body, but Jesus retained his wounds. The perfect, sinless Lamb of God carries the wounds of all humanity with him, and it is in through these wounds that all humanity can find healing.
Stop and think about some the ways you’ve been wounded over the years of your life. Have you offered these wounds fully to Jesus in order to experience his healing power? How does it make you feel to know that Jesus understands your wounding?
Get quiet for a moment and imagine Jesus saying these words to you: “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I am sending you.” Allow his healing to flow over you.
Now imagine the breath of the Spirit of Jesus blowing over you and empowering you to bring Jesus’ hope and healing to those around you.
What do you think Jesus might be asking you to do in response? What will you do about that today?
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The Everyday Jesus Follower’s Guide ebook can help you learn how to recognize God's voice, how to read and understand the Bible, how to develop deep spiritual friendships, and how to become the person you were meant to be. Use it alone, with a friend or in a small group.
