A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” – John 20:26
After Jesus was crucified, His disciples worried they would be the next targets. So, they all gathered into a room and hid out. They locked the doors, turned off the lights, and waited.
Then Jesus shows up. He doesn’t knock politely at the door. He doesn’t announce His presence loudly. He simply shows up in the middle of the room and proclaims, “Peace be with you!”
It’s hard to blame the disciples—we all face situations that we want to hide from. Maybe you’re waiting on test results from the doctor, and all you want to do is avoid his calls.
Perhaps you’ve just learned your spouse is cheating and you don’t want to come home. Maybe there’s a warrant out for your son’s arrest, and you want to hide from your community.
Whatever happens, you can rest secure in the knowledge that Jesus is with you right now. What He said to His disciples is the same thing He’s saying to you, “Peace be with you!”
Prayer:
Lord, I feel overwhelmed by fear and shame. Everything feels like it’s falling apart and I’m scared. I’m ready to hide out. Please remind me that You’re here. Grant me the peace that comes from Your presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
