Easter is a wonderful time of year, as we see the beginnings of Spring, but it was not always such an easy time. In fact, a great many people who followed Jesus found it a particularly difficult season as the person they had grown to love was killed in the most awful way. Those whom Jesus called friends were scared and continued to be scared, as they locked themselves away from others. Still others, journeyed away from Jerusalem with heavy hearths. It was all a crushing blow to what they believed. But then, like a bulb emerging from the dark earth — new life appeared. Jesus appears to his friends in the locked room telling them not to be afraid, he even has them test their theories that he is a ghost, only to find a whole body standing in front of them. So too, does Jesus journey along sided his friends on the road, opening their eyes as they share a meal and discover that death has not won after all. Jesus is alive and even better, he assures us of new life.
Easter is an important day and season because all too many people are still locked away in fear, or travelling along the path of life with the feeling that they are simply alone. The triumphal words of life over the power of death is for the world to hear, and more importantly, to experience. The disciple Thomas was one who in his doubt wished to test and see if Jesus was actually standing in front of him in the locked room. To test our doubts and concerns is a brave thing to do, and Thomas is better for it as it acts as a vehicle for his faith. As well, the tangible signs of companionship in the breaking of bread is what helps the friends of Jesus know that the story does not end in death, rather it continues in new life.
Every Sunday we will find that the word of God is ‘cracked open’ anew for us so that it meets our fears and confronts our faith. We will see the way of the early Christian community, be reminded of the crucifixion, and its power to grow more followers of Jesus. We will encounter seekers who desire teachers, and see how God prepares the work of the Church for growth.
