Scripture Reflections for the Third Sunday of Easter: April 26, 2009

When Christ appears unexpectedly, the disciples are afraid—of course, that is their “usual pose” in the Gospels—forever afraid about something. But it is to that fear that Christ speaks words of assurance and peace, not words of exasperation. We, the 21st century disciples, are sort of like those first disciples. We, too, “frighten easily.” We are like nervous horses—ready to bolt at any disturbance. But, when we “bolt,” we are returning to familiar behaviors—all of the things we had hoped Christ would change in us. Yet, His words are not words of judgment. They are words of peace. Take a breath. Be at peace. He is here. All will be well. He gives us the space to return, and to grow. So let’s ask His Grace to continue to walk in His footsteps—the footsteps of the Prince of Peace.