After finding the tomb empty, the disciples are fearful and go into hiding for they did not understand the scripture that Jesus must rise from the dead. That evening Jesus appears in the midst of them, offers a blessing of peace, shows them his wounds, reveals their new mission, and breathes on them the Holy Spirit. Doubting Thomas was not there so a week later, Jesus makes a special visit just for Thomas so that he can touch the wounded body and believe.

Many generations and countless witnesses later, we feel a little smug when we hear Jesus say,"Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe." (John 20:29) And yet we often find ourselves fearful and doubting, locked in and locking out. We miss seeing Jesus in the needs of our neighbors.

The good news is that Jesus comes to us and stands in our midst. In our fear and in our doubt the risen Christ blesses us with peace, invites us to faithful community and filling meal, equips and sends us. We are blessed to see the Lord and believe. Alleluia!

All are welcome to join us to worship the Risen Lord on Sunday mornings at 8:30 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Runge.