Sermon for Sunday 19th April 2020

Part Two - By Keith Finch, Nelmes URC

Active peace
When questions and fears torment us we will often seek a safe place where we can hide. Similarly, the disciples sought refuge behind the locked doors of the upper room. However, it was empty of the one presence that would bring them relief and release. Suddenly, Jesus stands among them speaking his word of peace, and resolving their questions by demonstrating that it is really him, risen from the dead. Peace, however, is not a comfort blanket. It is a calling to share and to be that peace to others.
 
How can we share and be that peace to others in our current situation
 
Positive speaking
The first words Jesus spoke were, ‘Peace be with you!’ He would have been aware of their anxieties and fears and wanted to allay them at the first opportunity. He could have come into the disciples’ presence saying words like, ‘I told you I would rise, so why didn’t you believe me? You’re supposed to be my followers and friends, the ones I’ve been closest to. Where is your faith?’ Are we always ready to begin conversations with positive words — even when we need to make some kind of criticism? Do we begin with the positive? Do we make our criticism honest but helpful? Do we base our relationships on fear or on understanding? Extracts from Roots 19th April
 
Jesus said to Thomas: 
‘Do not doubt but believe.’
Thomas replied: ‘My Lord and my God.’
 Jesus says to me:
‘Do not doubt but believe.’
I reply: ‘My Lord and my God.’