Lessons from The Great Commission, Living in fear

In John 20:19., we find the disciples caught in a web of fear. “Then, the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled, for fear of the Jews…” RSV

Fear of the Jews. Fear because things didn't go as they had planned. The One they were ready to crown as their earthly king had just been crucified. Fear they could be next. Questions racing through their minds. Were they trying to remember the words of Jesus? Were they arguing over opinions? Imagine how we handle controversy today. The crucification of Jesus would have been earth shattering for the disciples. We have 20/20 vision, and God’s Word. These guys had the Old Testament, they had the past several months of walking with Jesus, they were living in the moment. And the enemy of deceit was just as active in their day as he is today. 

There’s no doubt in my mind that when Jesus came and stood in their midst, saying; “Peace be with you,” the atmosphere changed. For indeed, the presence of Jesus in that place would have resonated peace, but AGAIN (twice spoken-twice the importance-double the need) the Lord spoke the words, Peace be with you! And it was! (Remember Genesis, in the Creation, God spoke everything into existence)

Imagine the Prince of Peace appearing in a room filled with fear. Just as light chases the darkness away, the presence of the Prince of Peace would have chased away every fear, anxious thought, distorted, deceptive, and destructive deliberation. 

SELAH

Can you relate? Does peace seem to evade you? Do the worries and cares of the day consume your mind robbing you of the peace that God intended for you?

What would happen if you invited Jesus into your presence today? What worries and cares would flee as peace settles into your room? Are you ready to welcome the change that only Jesus can bring?

Dear Jesus, Thank you for your peace that passes ALL understanding! Your perfect, life-changing peace. We invite you into our lives, the good, the bad and the ugly. We ask you to transform our hearts and give us your blessed peace. In your mighty name, Jesus, we pray. Amen.