Easter People: Right In The Middle

EASTER PEOPLE – 2

RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE

On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” 20 After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord. 21 Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” 22 And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”  John 20:19-23 NIV

What are your fears?

God meets us in our fear and uncertainty.  (John 20:19)

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  Philippians 4:4-6 NIV

Peace is not the absence of fear, but the presence of Jesus.  (John 20:20)

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus… 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me – put into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.  Philippians 4:7, 9

God’s presence sends us to be his hands and feet.  (John 20:21-23)