A note from Pastor Travis 4-9-26

This Sunday can be called “Doubting Thomas Sunday.” It is the Sunday that we read the story of Jesus’ appearance to Thomas, showing him the scars left by the nails of the cross, so that he might believe that Jesus has indeed been resurrected. At the end of the episode, Jesus says to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.”

Growing up, I loved that verse. I felt that it was talking about me. I would say to myself, “Hey, I haven’t seen Jesus, but I believe! Jesus calls me blessed!” This passage was a place of comfort. Then, as I matured in my faith, I began to consider the matter more deeply. I asked the question, is believing enough. On one level it is. We don’t have to earn our salvation. On another, however, I realized that the gift of faith comes with an important responsibility. It isn’t a treasure to hoard; it is a gift to share. The Biblical scholar Rev. Dr. Yung Suk Kim, writes, “Importantly, the Gospel emphasizes that this faith is distinct from simple knowledge; it involves a trusting relationship with Jesus and a commitment to follow his teachings and example.” 

This idea lies at the heart of this passage from John. Earlier in the story, Jesus had appeared to the other disciples, who were hiding together in a locked room. After Jesus showed them is scars from the crucifixion so that they would know that it was he, Jesus “breathed on them and said to them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.’” He was empowering them to go into the world and serve, sharing God’s love with others. The disciples had experienced the grace of the resurrection. Now, it was their responsibility to embody that grace in the world.

We too have experienced the love of God through the Easter story. We too are empowered by Christ to share God’s love in the world. We This means that we shouldn’t call it “Doubting Thomas Sunday.” Instead, we should call it “Empowered by Christ to Serve Sunday.”

Join us this Sunday as we continue to celebrate Easter and reflect on who we live as Easter people in the world. 

Invite a friend, so that too can know the joy of being Easter people.

Blessings and Grace,

Pastor Travis