Scripture & Reflection: Sunday 27th April - The Second Sunday of Easter - and for the week ahead:

Scripture:

'A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you.’ Then he said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.’ Thomas answered him, ‘My Lord and my God!’ Jesus said to him, ‘Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.’
Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name.' (John 20:26-31)

Reflection:

The apostle John waits until the penultimate chapter to tell us why he wrote his gospel: “….so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name.” There is a peacefulness, a gentleness in these words; there is no forcing. And when Thomas expressed his doubts, Jesus responded gently too.
Peace, quiet, gentleness and time are quite restorative. Thomas and the other disciples were transformed by the presence and gentle approach of Jesus as he says to them, “Peace be with you. Do not doubt but believe.” Hear Jesus say those words to you – right now.

“Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.” This is written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name. Let those gentle but powerful words change your life.

Revd David