continuing John 20 - The Lord is Risen!

This is a new idea to me: The disciples were hiding out in fear. Perhaps they were fearful that they would be accused of robbing the grave. That was a capital offense in those days. It was not just some general fear because their leader was now dead. That might have been part of it. But they also had a specific thing they could be accused of. They were sort of "on the lam" from the authorities.

Jesus came into the room and did not complain of their unbelief, their cowardice, their lack of understanding. No, he simple encouraged them, "peace be with you" (19). He spoke loving to their present need.

Then he commissioned them. "As the Father has sent me so I am sending you." (22)

Then he empowered them, "Receive the Holy Spirit." (23) Receiving the Holy Spirit does not have to come with speaking spiritual languages, flashing lights or sirens. God simply sends Him and we receive Him into our hearts by faith. Later the disciples will receive signs but that is simply to strengthen their faith. All believers may receive the support of the Holy Spirit, the Paraclete, by simply asking God. God is eager to give.

How different Jesus is than I am! I over much complain about the shortcomings of others, forgetting my own and how much the shortcomings of those around me are the result of my own lack of faith and lack of vision.

Jesus sends us out, flawed as we are, to do his work and be his ambassadors. He has no one else but us. And he absolutely loves working through weak people because it shows his strength. We are called. We are commissioned. We are empowered by the Holy Spirit.