Beloveds,
Imagine if every greeting to one another started, “Peace be with you.” What might change within us in a world filled with fear and insecurity? Many years ago, while having a conversation about security, I responded to a friend, “Security is an illusion.” To which she responded, “That may well be, but it is an illusion I would like to foster.”
When Jesus says as he appears to the remaining disciples in Jerusalem, who are presumably hiding in the upper room in fear of the authorities, “Peace be with you. Why are you disturbed?”, he is inviting them to find the peace within while in the midst of struggle. He was there to show them that death does not have the last word. Following Jesus is not a secure venture, but there is peace to be found.
I look forward to seeing you Sunday at 10 am at 1130 Balclutha or on Zoom and livestream as we dive deeper into Luke 24:36-48, Jesus’s last appearance to the disciples before ascending into Heaven. Invite a friend!
Peace,
Rev. Michael Cronin