On that first day beyond the grave, Jesus walks into a room filled with his closest followers. They are afraid but by showing them his wounds, Jesus comforts them. He blesses them. Then, ready or not, he sends them to receive and share the Spirit. He reminds them to practice forgiveness. And always concerned about the least, he returns to make sure Thomas is not left out.

Notice, he blesses and sends them. I imagine they did not feel ready to be sent anywhere. He does not tell them to get their act together and then go do ministry. They have been equipped with the message of peace by the power of self-giving, forgiving love.

The lesson John teaches is that the Risen Lord does not seek those who are able to get things done, but folk who need help. The “priesthood of all believers” which Martin Luther embraced, celebrates the light of God shining through simple love, turning even mistakes into real opportunities for encouragement and hope.

As Jesus’ followers, we give of ourselves and inspire love and peace by generous acts of kindness and mercy. Broken, wounded healers, we find joy in serving, multiplying the fruit and gifts of the Spirit through actions of love for the people God has brought into our lives. Peace in your serving!