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What does the breeze have in common with our faith? Just as we can feel the wind without seeing it, faith often requires us to trust beyond what our eyes perceive. In this thoughtful exploration of John 20, we journey through the resurrection appearances of Jesus and witness the remarkable transformation of doubt into devotion.
The disciples huddle behind locked doors, fearful and uncertain after Jesus's crucifixion. Suddenly, Jesus stands among them—passing through walls as easily as he overcame death itself. His first words? Not disappointment over their desertion but a gentle "Peace be with you." As he breathes his Spirit upon them, we witness a beautiful parallel to creation itself—God once again breathing life into his people, now for a divine mission of forgiveness and restoration.
Then there's Thomas—honest, grieving, and unable to accept secondhand testimony. His week-long absence might explain his struggle; perhaps he was observing the traditional seven-day Jewish mourning period. When Jesus returns specifically to address Thomas's doubts, inviting him to touch the wounds of crucifixion, we witness one of Scripture's most powerful confessions: "My Lord and my God." This moment perfectly balances Jesus's compassion for our human need for evidence with his blessing on those who will believe without seeing.
John carefully crafted his gospel around seven miraculous signs and seven "I am" statements, each revealing Jesus's divine identity. His purpose remains as relevant today as when first written: "that you may continue to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing in him you will have life by the power of his name." When doubt creeps in—as it inevitably does—remember that Jesus meets us exactly where we are, with the precise evidence our hearts need. What locked doors in your life need Jesus to pass through today?
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