Blessed Believers
Scripture Reading — John 20:18-31
Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
—John 20:29
Being a disciple is more than an intellectual experience! It’s more than knowing a lot of biblical teachings. It’s a lifestyle—a way of living—involving emotions. That certainly was the case on that first Easter Sunday!
Imagine it: you’ve watched your leader’s awful crucifixion and heard him cry, “It is finished” (John 19:30). You were afraid, like others, and you abandoned him. But now Mary Magdalene is shouting, “I have seen the Lord!” What emotions do you think you would have?
Then, later that day, the disciples say that Jesus visited with them. But you weren’t there, so you missed it. Now it’s a week later, and you’re with the other disciples. Suddenly, Jesus is standing there too and saying, “Peace be with you!” Then he turns to you—Thomas! And he says, “Put your finger here … Reach out your hand …” He’s open to being touched, and even adds, “Stop doubting and believe.” What an incredible experience!
Thomas declares his belief: “My Lord and my God!” And Jesus responds with an affirmation, and with an added blessing for believers who have not seen him but do believe.
Can you also confess that the risen Jesus is your Lord and God? What a blessing it is to be able to share that today!
Lord Jesus, today we celebrate your being alive and in the world today. We are so grateful for your finished work of salvation. Help us to share it freely. Alleluia! Amen!
About the author — George Vink
Pastor George Vink has served as a pastor in the Christian Reformed Church for more than 30 years in British Columbia, Montana, Michigan, and California. He and his wife, Shirley, have four married sons and nine grandchildren.
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