Peace Be With You

Jesus rose from the dead, bringing us to share in the life of the resurrection. —Echoing the Mystery 19:3

Faith 

“Peace be with you” (John 20:19). We just celebrated Divine Mercy Sunday, the feast which is a balm to our souls. In the Gospel of John (John 20:19-29), we witness mercy in two dramatic events. First, Jesus stood among the apostles, saying, “Peace be with you.” His next action can easily be missed. He breathes on them, saying, “Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.” 

Next, Jesus appears again a week later, looks to Thomas, who doubted the Resurrection, and asks him to put his finger in His hands and side. This interaction stirs the faith of Thomas, who proclaims, “My Lord and my God.” 

These events are a balm to us for many personal reasons—when we doubt, question, look for proof of Jesus’ presence, question if our sins can be forgiven, etc. Yet until our last breath, we have an opportunity for forgiveness—to allow Jesus to breathe the Spirit upon us and say, “Peace be with you.” Let Him reign in your heart, and proclaim with Thomas, “My Lord and my God.” 

Spot the Virtue 

How often do you intentionally pause to reflect upon the day and recognize the high and low points? The virtue of gratitude is the cornerstone of forming a grateful disposition, as it joins together our reason and will–our mind and heart. Our reason enables us to recognize an act of kindness extended toward us, and our will allows us to say, “Thank you.” These actions will always bring people together in the community.  

Name:  Kelly, Mrs. Wagner told me you thanked her for teaching your art class. 

Explain:  She felt so appreciated by your words of gratitude.   

Express:  Thank you for expressing your gratitude; your other classmates heard you and thanked her as well.  

Spot the virtue in one person this week.  

Prayer 

Read John 20:19-29. 

God’s Word strikes the heart. What word or phrase touched your heart? 

Describe Jesus’ appearance to the disciples. What does He say? 

Re-read verses 22 and 23. Jesus breathed on them and gave them an instruction. What did Jesus’ instruction mean? 

Thomas was not present at Jesus’ first appearance. How does he react when Jesus speaks to him? 

“Jesus, You said, ‘Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.’ At times it is hard to believe without seeing. What can I do to increase my belief in You?”