Journey to the Cross 
Pause
This week, we share this Good News: Christ is Risen! Our long wait is over!
Stop and take a deep breath, breathing in the joy of Easter morning; breathe out the fear and doubt of the night that has passed.
God sees you today and loves you as you are.
Who needs to be seen by you today? Look up, so you can share the good news.
Listen
It was still the first day of the week. That evening, while the disciples were behind closed doors because they were afraid of the Jewish authorities, Jesus came and stood among them. He said, “Peace be with you.” After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. When the disciples saw the Lord, they were filled with joy. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father sent me, so I am sending you.” Then he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”
John 20:19-22
Think
You made it – the wait is over – Easter is here! If you’re like me, you are drinking a diet soda for breakfast, just because you can! Lent is counter to our instant gratification culture but a worthy spiritual exercise because things tend to work out for us on God’s time, not ours. Remember, God has been watching the Giant Redwoods since they were seedlings, over 3,000 years ago.
Today’s passage finds the disciples waiting and afraid, and then Jesus shows up. It is the same for us – God shows up in the midst of our waiting with news of peace, and usually with a job to do. Jesus basically says, “Don’t be afraid. Now let’s get to work…”
So I hope rest was part of your Lenten waiting. Because today you are invited to be about the work of Jesus in the world – healing, sharing, loving, standing for justice for those who are oppressed, sheltering the immigrant. This is our work, to which the Risen Savior has called us. Are you ready?
David Burroughs
Pray
Loving God, we have waited for this week, looking to mark the time when Jesus was raised and the Holy Spirit was unleashed to move among us. I want you to lead me today to someone who needs encouragement or help or to be reminded of your patient and powerful grace. Open my eyes and give me your voice of love. Amen.
Go
Find your voice today and speak “Peace” to someone in distress.
Find your grip today and hug someone who needs to know they are loved.
Find your stride today and move toward a hurting world with the healing power of the one who made you, who redeemed you, and who has called you to serve.
