How do we embrace belief in the face of what may seem unbelievable? Consider the astounding rhythms of nature: the heart, pulsing 100,000 times each day, with the same force required to squeeze a tennis ball, not requiring our conscious influence. Then there's the Sun, emitting enough energy in a single second to power our world for millions and millions of years—releasing a staggering 386 million trillion megawatts per second!
Yet, for many, the resurrection of Jesus Christ remains a challenge to belief. This week, I delved into the accounts of Jesus' first appearances following his resurrection and found myself pondering, "What motivates ordinary people like us to embrace the seemingly impossible?"
Think about the two disciples on the road to Emmaus. They heard reports of Jesus' resurrection from women who had visited the tomb, they encountered Jesus themselves and engaged in a Bible study with him during a seven-mile walk, yet they did not fully believe until Jesus broke bread and shared communion with them.
After this moment, Jesus vanished, only to reappear shortly afterward to the rest of the disciples. Their initial reaction was one of terror, mistaking him for a ghost. In Luke 24:39, Jesus reassured them, saying, "Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have." Consider doubting Thomas—he needed to see and feel the wounds in Jesus' hands and side to believe.
Doubting is a natural aspect of human behavior, but so is believing! Take Mary Magdalene, a devoted follower of Jesus who had experienced his healing power firsthand. Upon hearing the voice of the risen Jesus, Mary Magdalene believed immediately! Similarly, the other women at the tomb were initially filled with fear but ultimately believed, courageously spreading the news despite the potential stigma.
Communion provides us with an opportunity to reflect on Christ's sacrificial love, symbolized by his body and blood. It's a time to examine our hearts, acknowledging moments of both belief and doubt. Would you join me in prayer?
Jesus, your resurrection defies comprehension. We are humbled as we contemplate the greatest miracle in history! Like Doubting Thomas, who sought tangible proof, we acknowledge our moments of doubt and pray for the faith to believe without seeing. We confess that, like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, we may study and seek you without always recognizing your presence in our lives. Yet, just as you revealed yourself through the breaking of bread, may our eyes be opened to perceive you among us today.
Father, like Mary Magdalene, who was so transformed by your love that she recognized your voice immediately, may we be drawn by your relentless grace and seek you earnestly, yearning for your presence in every moment. And like the women who encountered you at the tomb, initially gripped by fear but spurred to action, may we, too, through the power of your Holy Spirit, overcome our fears. Grant us boldness and wisdom as we endeavor to be your witnesses in every facet of our lives, from the mundane to the extraordinary. May our words and deeds radiate your love and truth, transforming the world around us. Amen.
