John

In this week's sermon, we delve into the calling of Philip and Nathanael, two ordinary individuals who encountered Jesus and were forever changed. Their stories, found in the Gospel of John, offer valuable lessons for us today.

Philip, upon meeting Jesus, immediately recognized him as the Messiah. His response was swift and unwavering – he got up and followed without hesitation. This teaches us the importance of recognising Jesus's call in our lives and responding with wholehearted faith.

Nathanael, however, was more skeptical. He questioned whether anything good could come from Nazareth, Jesus's hometown. Yet, Philip simply invited him to "come and see." Nathanael's initial doubt transformed into belief upon meeting Jesus, who saw the sincerity within him. This reminds us that even with doubts, encountering Jesus can lead to profound faith.

Both Philip and Nathanael's encounters with Jesus demonstrate the transformative power of a personal encounter with the living Christ. We too can experience this transformation when we seek Him with open hearts.

As we reflect on these stories, let us consider our own responses to Jesus's call. Are we like Philip, ready to follow without hesitation? Or are we like Nathanael, hesitant but willing to explore? Regardless of where we stand, let us remember that Jesus welcomes us with open arms, ready to reveal greater things to those who believe.

Let us also be like Philip, inviting others to "come and see" Jesus. In a world filled with doubt and skepticism, our personal testimonies can be powerful tools to draw others closer to Christ. As we share our faith, we can trust that Jesus will work in the hearts of those who seek Him.

In John 2:13-22, we witness Jesus' righteous anger as he clears the temple courts of merchants and money changers. This act, often interpreted as a zeal for his Father's house, holds a deeper meaning for us today.

Jesus' actions weren't merely about physical cleanliness; they were symbolic of a spiritual cleansing. The temple, meant to be a place of worship, had been corrupted by worldly concerns. This mirrors our own hearts, which can often become cluttered with distractions that hinder our connection with God.

Just as Jesus overturned the tables of the money changers, we too must examine our lives and identify the things that prevent us from fully experiencing God's presence. These might be material possessions, unhealthy habits, or even seemingly harmless activities that consume our time and energy.

Lent provides an opportunity for reflection and repentance. It is a time to turn away from the distractions that have taken root in our hearts and turn towards God. Through prayer, fasting, and acts of charity, we can create space for God to work within us.

As we journey towards Easter, let us ask ourselves: What needs cleansing in my life? What is hindering my relationship with God? And let us have the courage to invite Jesus to overturn those tables and restore our hearts to a place of pure worship.

Remember, the ultimate sacrifice has already been made. Jesus' death and resurrection paved the way for our reconciliation with God. Let us not allow worldly distractions to obscure this truth. Instead, let us strive for hearts that are clean, open, and fully devoted to our Heavenly Father.

In the timeless story of the Samaritan woman at the well, we encounter Jesus breaking societal norms and extending grace to an unexpected individual. This encounter, found in John 4:5-42, holds profound lessons for our own lives and ministries.

Jesus, weary from His travels, meets a woman shunned by her community. Despite their differences, He initiates a conversation, offering her "living water" – a symbol of eternal life and spiritual fulfilment. This encounter speaks volumes about Jesus' ministry, which was not confined to the synagogue or temple but extended to those on the margins of society.

The woman, initially seeking physical water, leaves her jar behind, her thirst quenched by the living water Jesus offers. Her transformation is immediate and profound. She becomes a passionate evangelist, sharing the good news with her community.

This story challenges us to examine our own hearts and ministries. Are we willing to step outside our comfort zones, like Jesus, and engage with those who are different from us? Do we recognise the thirst for spiritual fulfilment in those around us, and are we ready to offer them the living water of Christ?

Like the Samaritan woman, we too can experience a profound transformation when we encounter Jesus. Our old ways, symbolised by the woman's discarded jar, can be left behind as we embrace the new life He offers.

May we be inspired by the Samaritan woman's story to share the living water with those around us, leading them to the source of eternal life. As we go about our daily lives, may we be mindful of the opportunities to minister to others, regardless of their background or social standing.

Let us remember that Jesus' ministry was one of inclusion and transformation. May we follow His example, extending grace and compassion to all, and sharing the good news of His love with a thirsty world.

In the story of Noah's Ark, we witness a world consumed by wickedness, yet Noah found favour in God's eyes. Chosen to build an ark, a vessel of hope and redemption, Noah obeyed God's instructions, ensuring the survival of his family, himself, and a multitude of creatures. The flood cleansed the earth, and the rainbow stands as a symbol of God's covenant, a promise of renewal.

Similarly, baptism symbolises cleansing and renewal. It marks our entry into a covenant with God, a declaration of faith and a new life in Christ. Just as Noah stepped into the ark, trusting in God's plan, we too step forward in faith through baptism.

The feeding of the 5,000 further illuminates God's abundant love and provision. Jesus, moved by compassion, miraculously multiplied a young boy's humble offering, satisfying the hunger of a vast crowd. This miracle speaks to both our physical and spiritual needs, reminding us that God cares for us in every way. Baptism signifies this generous love, assuring us of our status as God's beloved children.

As we celebrate baptism today, let us remember these powerful lessons. Baptism is a journey of faith, a symbol of God's cleansing power, and a testament to His unwavering provision. Just as Noah placed his trust in God and the young boy offered his meager lunch, may we too trust in God's plan and step forward in faith, embracing the new life that awaits us in Christ. 

Through baptism, we embark on a lifelong journey of faith, guided by God's love and provision. May we always remember the symbolism of the ark and the miracle of the loaves and fish, drawing strength and inspiration from them as we navigate the waters of life. 

In the Gospel of John, we witness the extraordinary miracle of Jesus feeding the five thousand. This event, however, holds deeper significance than a mere display of supernatural power. It reveals Jesus's ministry extending beyond physical nourishment to the spiritual sustenance he offer

Imagine being present in that crowd, witnessing the multiplication of loaves and fishes. Such a spectacle would undoubtedly leave a lasting impression, a testimony to share for a lifetime. Yet, Jesus didn't stop at filling stomachs. He used this miracle as a platform to introduce himself as the Bread of Life, drawing a parallel to the manna God provided for the Israelites in the wilderness.

This miracle wasn't just for the masses; it held a profound lesson for his disciples. Their human limitations were evident in their suggestion to send the crowd away. Jesus, however, challenged them to see beyond the seemingly impossible. He demonstrated that through faith in God's power, even their meager resources could be transformed to accomplish great things.

This event also highlights the importance of first impressions. Jesus left an enduring mark on all who encountered him, from the vast crowd to the individual boy who offered his lunch. As Christians, we are called to leave a similar impact, reflecting God's love and power in our interactions with others.

Let us not limit our ministry to what we deem possible within our human capabilities. Instead, let us trust in God's boundless power, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us in serving others and sharing the transformative message of Christ. May our encounters with others always point them towards the Bread of Life, leaving an everlasting impression that draws them closer to God.

In John 6.44, Jesus tells us, ‘No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them.’ This profound statement lies at the heart of our faith journey. It reminds us that our relationship with God is not merely a human choice, but a divine invitation.

God is constantly reaching out to us, drawing us closer to Him and His son, Jesus Christ. This invitation is extended to all, regardless of our past or present circumstances. God's love is unconditional. He wants everyone to come to know Him and experience the fullness of His grace.

Did you know that God is calling you personally? Our role is simply to say ‘Yes’ to Him. When we accept His invitation, we begin a life-changing journey of faith, guided by the Holy Spirit. It won’t always be easy. There will be challenges and doubts along the way. But we can find strength knowing that God is always with us.

Interestingly, James 4.8 says,’Come near to God and he will come near to you.’ As we gather for worship, hear God’s word, participate in the sacraments, and engage in acts of service, we are seeking God and He is seeking us! 

Remember the parable of the Good Shepherd? John 10 tells us, ‘I have other sheep that are not of this sheepfold. I must bring them also.’  As Jesus’ followers, we are part of God’s plan to draw people closer to him. Could you bring a friend with you to a Sunday service, share with them what God is doing in your life, or offer to pray for something they are worried about? It isn’t easy to step out in faith this way, but the Holy Spirit will help us. That’s his job! 

In our recent sermon, we explored the concept of spiritual hunger and the true meaning of Jesus' words, "I am the living bread that came down from heaven." In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to find ourselves on autopilot, responding to questions with automatic, superficial answers. But deep down, are we truly satisfied?

Jesus offers us something more profound than the fleeting satisfaction of earthly bread. He offers us the Bread of Life, which nourishes our souls and grants eternal life. This isn't just about physical sustenance; it's about a spiritual transformation that occurs when we fully embrace Christ's love and sacrifice.

The Eucharist, often seen as a representation of this spiritual nourishment, is a powerful symbol of our communion with Christ and with each other. However, it's important to remember that our relationship with Jesus extends beyond the communion rail. Every act of faith, every moment of prayer, every encounter with His word – these are all opportunities to feed on the Bread of Life.

So, when was the last time you truly encountered Christ and felt His life-giving presence? When were you last transformed by His love? Let us not settle for a life of mere existence. Let us seek the fullness of life that comes from a deep, abiding relationship with Jesus, the Bread of Life.

In John 10, Jesus shares the parable of the Good Shepherd, a powerful image of leadership, protection, and trust. As Christians, we can draw valuable insights from this passage to guide our lives and our collaborative efforts within the church.

Jesus, the Good Shepherd, demonstrates thoughtful leadership, emphasising the importance of relationships. He knows his sheep, and they know him, reflecting a deep bond of trust. This resonates with the importance of building strong relationships and trust within our church community.

Effective communication is another key aspect of Jesus' leadership. He skilfully uses parables and analogies to convey his message in a relatable way. Similarly, clear and open communication is crucial for our church to share a common vision and work together effectively.

In John 10, Jesus' vision is to bring others into his sheepfold. As members of the Ouse Valley Benefice, we must collectively embrace and own our shared vision for the future.

The world around us is constantly changing, and our church must adapt and evolve. This requires a willingness to explore fresh expressions of church and worship while holding onto our core values. We must be open to where God is leading us, even if it means stepping outside our comfort zones.

Finally, the Good Shepherd provides protection and care for his sheep. As Christians, we are called to extend that same protection and care to those around us. By embodying the qualities of the Good Shepherd, we can create a welcoming and supportive community where everyone feels valued and loved.

Let us reflect on these lessons from John 10 and strive to be a church that exemplifies strong relationships, clear communication, shared vision, adaptability, and a commitment to caring for one another. As we journey together, may we always seek God's guidance and be open to the new things He has in store for us.

In the Gospel of John, Jesus proclaims, "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me" (John 10:27). But how do we discern His voice amidst the clamor of our modern lives?

Just as Jesus called His followers to listen, we too are called to cultivate a listening heart. In a world filled with distractions, creating space for silence and reflection is essential. It is in these quiet moments that we can tune in to the still, small voice of God. 

Remember, God's voice is not always a booming thunderclap; it can be a gentle whisper, a nudge in our spirit, or a sense of peace. It aligns with His Word, the Scriptures, and leads us towards love, joy, and truth. 

When we encounter confusion or doubt, turning to the Bible can provide clarity and direction. As we immerse ourselves in its pages, we attune our hearts to the language of God, making it easier to recognise His voice in our lives.

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in helping us discern God's voice. As we open ourselves to His guidance, He illuminates the truth and helps us distinguish it from the noise of the world.

Let us commit to actively listening for God's voice in our daily lives. By creating space for silence, studying the Scriptures, and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we can learn to recognise and follow the voice of the Good Shepherd. 

As we grow in our ability to hear and discern God's voice, we will experience a deeper relationship with Him, a greater sense of peace, and a clearer understanding of His will for our lives. May we always be attentive to His voice, ready to follow wherever He leads. 

In John 12, we find a powerful moment of devotion as Mary anoints Jesus at Bethany. It’s a scene filled with rich imagery and profound meaning. Imagine being there, just days before the Passover, as Jesus shares a meal with Lazarus, Martha, and Mary. Amidst this gathering, Mary takes an extraordinary step. She pours out a jar of pure nard, an incredibly expensive perfume, onto Jesus' feet and wipes them with her hair.

This wasn't just any act; it was a lavish display of love and humility. The perfume was worth a year's wages, a significant sacrifice. In that culture, anointing feet was reserved for servants, and for a woman to let down her hair in public was unconventional. Mary's actions were a radical departure from the norm, a bold statement of her devotion to Jesus.

But this beautiful gesture was met with criticism. Judas Iscariot questioned why the perfume wasn't sold and the money given to the poor. Yet, John tells us Judas's concern wasn't genuine; he was a thief. This highlights a stark contrast between Mary's selfless love and Judas's self-interest. It reminds us to examine our own motivations. Are our actions driven by genuine care and love, or by personal gain?

Jesus defended Mary, recognising the significance of her act. He understood it as a preparation for his burial, a foreshadowing of his impending death. Mary’s act, whether consciously or not, was a prophetic gesture of love and devotion. It challenges us: what costly act of devotion is Jesus calling us to today? It might not be perfume, but perhaps a sacrifice of time, talents, or resources, offered with a heart full of love and humility. May we all be moved to extravagant acts of love for our Saviour.

In this week's sermon, we delve into the profound message of John 12:20-33, where Jesus predicts His death. It's a passage that speaks volumes about sacrifice, renewal, and the ultimate triumph found in seemingly dark times.

The arrival of the Greeks seeking Jesus marks a pivotal moment. It signifies His ministry reaching beyond the Jewish community and extending to the Gentiles. This realization leads Jesus to declare, "The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified."

Jesus likens Himself to a grain of wheat that must fall to the ground and die in order to bear much fruit. This analogy encapsulates the essence of His mission – a life laid down, a sacrifice made, to bring forth abundant life. It's a message that resonates through the seasons, mirroring the trees that shed their leaves in autumn, only to burst forth with new life in spring.

As we journey through Lent, let's not shy away from reflecting on the cross. The agony and sacrifice are integral to the resurrection and the hope we have in Christ. It's in embracing the fullness of His journey, from death to resurrection, that we truly find the depth of His love and the power of His salvation.

Let us also heed Jesus' call to serve and follow Him wholeheartedly. It's a call to a life of sacrifice, a life poured out in service to others. As we make space for Jesus in our lives, let's identify any 'baggage' that hinders our pursuit of Him. Let's release those burdens and embrace the freedom and fulfillment found in following our Savior.

Remember, Jesus said, "Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be." In serving Him, we find our true purpose and eternal reward.

So, as we approach Holy Week, let's seek Jesus with open hearts. Let's embrace the transformative power of His sacrifice and live lives that reflect His love and grace.

In John 14, we encounter Jesus comforting His disciples during a time of uncertainty and fear. He speaks words of reassurance, reminding them not to let their hearts be troubled. This message resonates with us today, especially in times of loss and grief.

Jesus acknowledges the disciples' worries about the future and their confusion about where He is going. He responds by saying, "I am the way, the truth, and the life." Jesus is not simply offering directions; He is declaring Himself as the source of life and the only path to the Father.

This passage reminds us that our faith is not about blindly following a set of rules or earning our way to heaven. It is about trusting in Jesus, who has prepared a place for us and has gone ahead to show us the way.

As we navigate life's challenges, we can find comfort in knowing that Jesus is with us every step of the way. He promises to send His Spirit to guide and empower us, and He assures us that He will answer our prayers when we ask in His name.

In the Ouse Valley Benefice, we are called to continue Jesus' work here on Earth. We are invited to join in mission and service, sharing God's love with our local communities. As we move forward together, let us pray for growth in God's kingdom, trusting in His promises and seeking His guidance.

Remember, we don't need to have all the answers or know the exact path ahead. We simply need to trust in Jesus, who is the way, the truth, and the life. Let us walk confidently in His footsteps, knowing that He is with us always.

This week's Gospel reading from John 14:15-21 speaks of a profound promise: the gift of the Holy Spirit, a testament to God's unwavering love for us. It's a love that initiated creation, a love that sent Jesus as our Savior, and a love that continues to dwell within us through the Holy Spirit.

God's love, however, isn't passive; it calls for a response. "If you love me," Jesus tells us, "you will keep my commandments." Our love for God isn't merely an emotion; it's demonstrated through obedience and a commitment to following His ways. It's in choosing to align our lives with His teachings that we truly express our love for Him.

The Holy Spirit, often referred to as the Spirit of Truth, guides us in discerning truth from falsehood. In a world filled with deception, this is an invaluable gift. It's through the Spirit that we gain wisdom, make righteous decisions, and find comfort and peace. But have we truly tapped into this gift? Do we actively seek the Spirit's guidance in our daily lives?

Receiving the Holy Spirit isn't a complex ritual; it begins with a sincere desire and a demonstration of our love for Jesus. Through prayer, repentance, and acceptance of Christ as our Savior, we open our hearts to the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Let us remember, God's love for us never fails. It's patient, kind, and enduring. As we navigate life's complexities, may we actively seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit, allowing His truth to illuminate our paths and draw us closer to the heart of God.

In our spiritual lives, it is vital to understand the importance of remaining connected to Christ, much like branches are connected to a vine. This connection is the source of our spiritual nourishment and growth. We can cultivate this connection through prayer, scripture, fellowship, and service.

Prayer is our direct line of communication with God. It is through prayer that we express our needs, seek guidance, and find comfort. Scripture, the word of God, nourishes our souls and helps us understand His will. Regular reading and reflection on scripture allows us to deepen our relationship with Christ.

Fellowship within a community of believers is equally important. Surrounding ourselves with people who share our faith strengthens us and helps us grow. It is in community that we can support each other, learn from one another, and collectively serve God.

Service is the outward expression of our faith. When we serve others, we demonstrate the love of Christ and make a positive impact on the world around us. The fruits of the spirit, including love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and faithfulness, are the natural outcomes of a life deeply rooted in Christ.

When we remain in Christ, His love flows through us, inspiring us to live a life that reflects His character. This not only enriches our own lives but also contributes to the growth and vitality of the church. Let us commit to abiding in Christ, nurturing our connection with Him through prayer, scripture, fellowship, and service. In doing so, we will bear fruit that glorifies God and makes a positive impact on the world around us.

In the heart of God's garden, where love, kindness, and joy bloom, we gather to celebrate today's Baptisms.  This sacred moment marks the beginning of their spiritual journey, a journey that intertwines with the very essence of our faith.

Just as a gardener carefully tends to each plant, nurturing its growth, so too does God nurture us.  Through the waters of baptism, those coming for Baptism are grafted onto the vine that is Jesus, drawing life and sustenance from Him.  They become part of the family of God, embraced by His love and welcomed into His church.

As they embark on this journey, let us remember the words of Jesus, "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit."  Remaining in Jesus means abiding in His love, seeking His guidance, and allowing His teachings to shape our lives.  It is through this connection that we find true fulfilment and purpose.

The baptismal font, positioned at the back of the church, symbolises the start of this lifelong journey.  It is a reminder that our faith is not stagnant but ever-growing, leading us closer to God with each step we take.

As we witness today's baptisms, let us pray that those being baptised will always remain connected to Jesus, drawing strength and inspiration from His teachings.  May they experience the joy of God's love and the peace that comes from knowing they are His beloved children.  And may we, as a community of faith, continue to support and encourage them on their spiritual journey.

In the tapestry of life, love is the thread that binds us all. It's a profound emotion, one that we often struggle to define and express. Yet, in the heart of the Bible, Jesus offers a simple yet powerful command: "Love each other as I have loved you."

This divine instruction encapsulates the essence of Christian living. It's not a mere suggestion, but a mandate that carries the weight of God's authority. Jesus, the embodiment of love, calls us to a love that is unconditional, sacrificial, and selfless.

Love, in its truest form, is not always easy. It demands that we put aside our own needs and desires, and prioritize the well-being of others. It means loving not only those who love us in return, but also those who may be difficult to love.

In today's world, where division and discord often prevail, this commandment is more relevant than ever. We are called to be beacons of love in a world that desperately needs it.

But how do we live out this command? We start by looking to Jesus, our ultimate example. He demonstrated love through his actions, his teachings, and ultimately, his sacrifice on the cross.

Let us strive to follow in his footsteps, loving one another with the same depth and intensity. Let our churches be places where love flourishes, where everyone feels welcomed and accepted. Let our communities be transformed by the power of love.

Remember, love is not just a feeling; it's a verb. It requires action. So let us go out into the world and love one another as Jesus has loved us

In John 15:12-17, Jesus says, "My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you." These twelve words encapsulate the essence of the entire Bible, a testament to God's boundless love for us. This love is unconditional, sacrificial, and selfless, demonstrated through the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ.

Jesus's commandment to love one another isn't merely a suggestion; it's a divine mandate. It surpasses all other commandments and carries the weight of divine authority. As Christians, we are called to emulate Christ's love in our interactions with others, both within the church and in the wider world.

Sadly, we often fall short of this ideal. Within the church, we may hear phrases like, "The trouble with them is..." or "We don't want those types of people in our church." These sentiments are not rooted in love but in judgment and exclusion. In the wider world, we witness hatred, division, and indifference.

Yet, Christ's call to love remains steadfast. We are called to love unconditionally, just as God loves us despite our flaws and shortcomings. We are called to love sacrificially, putting the needs of others before our own, just as Christ laid down His life for us. We are called to love selflessly, extending compassion and kindness to all, even those who may seem unlovable.

This commandment isn't always easy to follow. It requires us to confront our prejudices, to forgive those who have hurt us, and to step outside our comfort zones. But as we strive to love as Christ loved us, we will experience the transformative power of God's love in our own lives and become beacons of His love in the world.

Let us remember that love is not merely a feeling but a choice, a commitment to emulate Christ's example. As we embrace this commandment, we will discover the true meaning of Christian fellowship and fulfil our calling to be agents of God's love in the world. 

Easter, like Christmas, is pivotal in the Christian calendar. Without Christmas, there's no gospel story. Without Easter, there's no good news. It's a new beginning, a new life offered to us all because of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross.

In John's Gospel, we witness Mary Magdalene's journey from grief to elation. She finds the tomb empty, presuming the worst. Yet, she's the first to hear the good news, the first to see the risen Lord. "I have seen the Lord," she proclaims, a testament to her faith and the transformative power of Christ's resurrection.

This Easter, let's look inside the tomb. Let's acknowledge its emptiness, a symbol of Christ's victory over death. Let's listen for Jesus' voice, calling us by name, inviting us into a deeper relationship with Him.

Let's share the good news, just like Mary did. Let's tell the world about the hope we have in Jesus, the hope of eternal life. Let's be part of this incredible love story, a story that began with an empty tomb and continues to unfold in our lives today.

Christ is risen! Hallelujah!

This week's sermon explores the profound events of Easter Sunday, drawing from the Gospel of John. The resurrection of Jesus left his disciples bewildered and fearful. Yet, Jesus appeared among them, offering words of peace and commissioning them to spread his message.

Just as the disciples were called to mission, we too are called to share the good news of Christ's resurrection. Our faith journey is not only based on our personal experiences but also on the testimonies of others. The account of Thomas, initially doubtful but ultimately believing upon seeing the risen Christ, underscores the power of both personal revelation and the witness of fellow believers.

We are reminded that our worship is rooted in our belief in the resurrection. As we gather, we affirm that we have seen the Lord, not just physically, but through the transformative power of his teachings and the Holy Spirit.

Let us, therefore, embrace our call to mission, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and share the good news of the empty tomb and the living Christ with a world that yearns for peace and hope.

Easter Sunday was a day of seismic shift. Imagine the disciples huddled together, fear gripping them, uncertainty swirling in the air. The tomb was empty, whispers of angels filled the women's stories, but disbelief lingered. Locked away, they tried to make sense of it all. Then, Jesus appears, and his first words? - “Peace be with you.”

These aren’t just empty words. Jesus offers a peace that transcends understanding, a peace that stills our anxieties and whispers reassurance. This peace isn’t just a greeting; it’s a gift, one that we’re reminded of each week in our worship.

But Jesus doesn’t stop there. He gives them a mission: “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” We too are sent out, not as lone rangers, but as a community empowered by the Holy Spirit. We aren’t all called to be missionaries in the traditional sense, but we are all called to bring people into a relationship with Christ, right where we are.

Think of coming to church as your launchpad for the week. We come to find peace, to seek forgiveness, and to be renewed. Then, we step out into our daily lives, carrying that peace and that mission with us. We are sent out to serve God, to be sensitive to the needs around us, and to share the good news in a way that’s understandable and accessible.

Just like Thomas, we might have doubts, we might be absent, but we too can come to belief and worship. We, too, can say, "We have seen the Lord." Let’s carry this message of peace and mission with us this week, knowing we are sent out in the power of the Spirit.