Jesus and the 12, Church of Dormition
Luke 24:35-48
Sometimes it’s good news out of the blue! And unfortunately sometimes it’s unimaginably bad news that leaves us breathless! Either way, we don’t always accept what we hear. We don’t always believe what we see! We are, quite simply, afraid – afraid of what has happened, afraid of what might follow!
The Apostles in today’s Gospel seem to be at their most human, their most vulnerable. They are still reeling from the shock of Jesus’ horrific suffering and death. And then 2 disciples return from Emmaus to tell them that they had seen the Risen Jesus. They keep hearing other stories about Jesus appearing to the women at the tomb. They are literally in emotional conflict – believe, not believe, hope, not hope, afraid and embarrassed by their own actions (or lack of action).
And then Jesus suddenly appears! It’s no wonder that they should feel all those emotions and all at once. And what does Jesus do – Peace, be with you! He calms their fears. Relax, take a deep breath, I am here, be at peace! And only then, after calming their emotions, showing them that it really is Him and sharing some food to show He isn’t some ghost, only then does He begin to talk to them and to teach them from Scriptures.
We all have plenty to worry about these days, plenty to stress over – our health, the health of our loved ones, worries over the simple basics of life – food, shelter and safety! It can be overwhelming and physically and emotionally draining. And what does Jesus say to us; what is the very first thing Jesus says to us – Be at Peace! Relax! Trust me! Believe that I am really here with you and listen to me! Calm yourself and take a deep breath! Why are you troubled? Why do so many questions arise in your hearts? Hear me, hear my words and do not be afraid!