Peace amid Fear

John 20:19-20 (ESV): “On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, ‘Peace be with you.’ When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord.”

Devotion:

In these verses, we witness a profound moment of encounter between Jesus and His disciples after His resurrection. The disciples were gathered together, their hearts likely heavy with fear, confusion, and grief. They were behind locked doors, not only to protect themselves from the world outside but also perhaps to shield themselves from the whirlwind of emotions raging within.

Yet, in the midst of their fear and uncertainty, Jesus appears among them. His first words to them are not words of rebuke for their desertion during His crucifixion, nor words of disappointment for their lack of understanding, but words of peace: “Peace be with you.”

What a powerful message for us today! In the midst of our own fears, doubts, and struggles, Jesus comes to us with the gift of peace. This is not a peace that the world offers, which is often fleeting and superficial, but a peace that transcends all understanding—a peace that comes from knowing that our Savior is with us, no matter what storms may rage around us.

Notice also how Jesus shows His disciples the wounds in His hands and side. These wounds are not marks of defeat but symbols of victory. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus conquered sin and death once and for all, offering us forgiveness, redemption, and eternal life.

Just as the disciples were filled with joy and gladness at the sight of the risen Lord, so too can we rejoice knowing that Jesus is alive, and His presence is with us always. Whatever trials we may face, whatever doubts may assail us, let us hold fast to the promise of Jesus: “Peace be with you.”

Prayer:

Dear Lord, we thank You for the gift of Your peace, which surpasses all understanding. In the midst of our fears and doubts, help us to trust in Your presence and to find comfort in Your promises. May we, like the disciples, rejoice in the reality of Your resurrection and the victory You have won for us. In Your name, we pray. Amen.