In Sydney, in the 21st century, it is a challenge not to simply read the accounts of Jesus’ post-resurrection appearances through a lens of suspended disbelief. We want to believe. But sometimes the evidence to support belief in our day seems very thin on the ground.
I am not convinced it was any more straightforward to believe for the first disciples. Even those who had post-resurrection encounters with Jesus could easily have talked themselves out of what they saw. The power of what we will allow to be true presses in on us from all sides all the time.
A persuasive remedy for this is to simply go forth and behave as if Jesus’ resurrection is true. Experience a day (and then another and another) with the hope of resurrection in the forefront of your heart and mind. See if it does not change what you will allow yourself to believe.
