Like Thomas and the first disciples, our lives are filled with questions and doubts, but Jesus appears with repeated word: “Peace be with you…”. Jesus welcomes them, and us, in the midst of doubts, fears, and questions, and then gives the strength to face the challenges to come.
Worship this week:
Saturday – 5:00 p.m. in the chapel
Sunday – 8:30 a.m. Traditional worship
9:30 a.m. Sunday School, Adult Bible Study and fellowship
10:30 a.m. Contemporary worship
Devotions for this week: Thomas, John 20:19-31
SHARE: What was a high point of your day? What was a low point?
READ: Read the following daily readings to deepen your understanding
Sunday, John 20:19-31, Thomas
Monday, Acts 6:1-7, Seven Chosen to Serve
Tuesday, Acts 6:8-15, The Arrest of Stephen
Wednesday, Acts 7:1-22, Stephen’s Speech to the Council
Thursday, Acts 7:23-43, Stephen’s Speech to the Council
Friday, Acts 7:44-53, Stephen’s Speech to the Council
Saturday, Acts 7:54–8:1, The Stoning of Stephen
TALK: Consider some of these ideas:
Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.” Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!”
(John 20:27-28)
Jesus is risen, yet most of the disciples have not yet seen him. Is Thomas really the only one who needs the proof his eyes give him?
- Tell of a time you doubted something about your faith. Give yourself permission to doubt – doubt leads to wondering, which leads to an even deeper faith.
- Wonder: What would you have done in Thomas’ position?
- Consider a doubt or a challenge that has been haunting you. Work it over as you walk or meditate. Look at it from every angle. Consider all your options. Look at it from God’s perspective. Ask God for guidance
PRAY: Resurrected Lord, you visit us again with the blessing of your peace. Endow us with your spirit and fortify us to go out in good cheer as your faithful witnesses, Amen.
BLESS: May God grant you doubt and faith. Amen.
