Through the Locked Door

Peace that came through a locked door

The Upper Room · That night, and eight days later · Lk 24:36–49 · Jn 20:19–29

Story

On the evening of the day of resurrection, the disciples were gathered in one room with the doors locked tight, for fear of the Jewish leaders. Just as the two back from Emmaus were telling their story, Jesus stood among them. Peace be with you. Startled and frightened, the disciples were sure they were seeing a ghost.

He showed them his hands and feet, marked by the nails, and his side. While they still could not believe it for joy and amazement, he took a piece of broiled fish and ate it in front of them. Then he opened their minds to understand the scriptures and said, the Christ will suffer and rise again, and the message of forgiveness of sins will be proclaimed to all nations. Then he breathed on them and said, receive the Holy Spirit.

The disciples told Thomas, who had not been there, we have seen the Lord. Thomas shook his head. Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and touch them, I will not believe. Eight days later, in the room with the doors locked again, Jesus stood and held out his hands and his side to Thomas. A confession burst from Thomas's lips. My Lord and my God!

His Words

Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so now I am sending you.

Look at my hands and my feet. It is really me. Touch me and see. A ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have.

You believe because you have seen me. Truly blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.

My Lord and my God!

The Christ had to suffer and rise from death on the third day. Now, in his name, the call to turn back and be forgiven will spread from Jerusalem to every nation.

The sayings are fresh renderings of the original meaning in today's language. Text: Lk 24:36–49 · Jn 20:19–29

Background

Pause and Reflect