Journey to the Cross

Pause

Alleluia! Christ is risen!

What does Easter mean to you?

What Good News can you model for others, in words or actions?

How will you embody the risen Christ in this season of joy?

How will you live into the spirit of “Alleluia?”

God’s love for you is boundless, endless, and unconditional. Alleluia!

Listen

After eight days his disciples were again in a house and Thomas was with them. Even though the doors were locked, Jesus entered and stood among them. He said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here. Look at my hands. Put your hand into my side. No more disbelief. Believe!”

Thomas responded to Jesus, “My Lord and my God!”

John 20:26-28

Think

Jesus knew Thomas, therefore Jesus loved Thomas. And in knowing and loving Thomas, he said “Okay, you need proof? Here’s proof.” I think this is not so much a story of Thomas’ shortcomings as it is of Jesus’ knowledge that Thomas was only human, with both gifts and faults.

Jesus models for us a way to love the ones we know best, especially when they do something that may seem silly or annoying at the time. Thomas responds with love and joy – not because he now has proof, but because Jesus’ love for him has restored the relationship that he thought had been lost.

Our life of faith is just that – renewing, healing, and restoring relationships with everyone we encounter, so that all of us can be enriched by God’s unconditional love for us.

Heidi J. Kim

Pray

Loving God, help me to love like Jesus, especially when I am impatient, frustrated, or annoyed. Give me strength to heal and renew relationships with my family, friends, and community, so that all of us can know your love for us. Amen.

Go

Alleluia! Christ is risen!

You are beloved.

You are a peace bearer.

You are a light in the world for others.

God’s love for you is boundless, endless, and unconditional. Alleluia!