Disciples in Jerusalem

Cathy Jamieson • May 11, 2024

Reflections on Unexpected Encounters

Luke 24:36-49

While they were talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” They were startled and terrified, and thought that they were seeing a ghost. He said to them, “Why are you frightened, and why do doubts arise in your hearts? Look at my hands and my feet; see that it is I myself. Touch me and see; for a ghost does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.” And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. While in their joy they were disbelieving and still wondering, he said to them, “Have you anything here to eat?” They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate in their presence. Then he said to them, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you—that everything written about me in the law of Moses, the prophets, and the psalms must be fulfilled.” Then he opened their minds to understand the scriptures, and he said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Messiah is to suffer and to rise from the dead on the third day, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins is to be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. And see, I am sending upon you what my Father promised; so stay here in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”

Last Sunday marked a special occasion as we celebrated new members joining our church family. It was a joyous moment as we embraced these individuals who have chosen to make this community their spiritual home. If you're considering making a similar commitment, I encourage you to explore our New Member classes or simply reach out to one of our pastors. We're here to support you on your journey of faith.

In our ongoing exploration of resurrection appearances, our reading from Luke's Gospel invites us into a profound encounter with Jesus. As we reflect on this passage together, let's highlight a few key points that resonate deeply with our shared journey of faith:

Encountering the Peace of Christ

Jesus' unexpected appearance among the disciples brings a message of peace that transcends fear and doubt. Have you ever experienced the peace of Christ in the midst of life's uncertainties? Perhaps you've felt the reassuring presence of Jesus in moments of crisis or distress. Jesus offers us his peace, a peace that surpasses all understanding, anchoring our hearts and minds in his love.

Embracing Forgiveness and Reconciliation

Just as Jesus showed his disciples the scars of his suffering, he invites us to confront our own brokenness and sin. Through his sacrificial love, Jesus offers forgiveness to all who repent and turn to him. Pastor Everett's powerful story of extending forgiveness to his son's murderer reminds us of the transformative power of grace. Jesus calls us to proclaim repentance and forgiveness to all nations, embodying his message of reconciliation and redemption.

Table Fellowship: A Symbol of Belonging

The shared meal with Jesus underscores the theme of table fellowship that runs throughout his ministry. Jesus welcomed sinners, outcasts, and the marginalized to his table, offering them a place of belonging and acceptance. As we gathered around the communion table last weekend, we were reminded of Jesus' invitation to all nations to partake in his grace-filled banquet. There's always room at the table for those who seek forgiveness and restoration.

As we reflect on these timeless truths, may we embrace the unexpected encounters with Jesus in our lives. Let us extend his peace to those around us, embody his forgiveness and reconciliation, and welcome others to the table of fellowship. In doing so, we bear witness to the transformative power of Christ's resurrection and the boundless love of our Savior.

**This blog post was written as a collaboration between our Director of Communications and AI.

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