In the evening of that first day of the week, the disciples were gathered together with the doors locked because of their fear of the Jews. Then Jesus came, stood among them, and said to them, “Peace be with you!” Having said this, He showed them His hands and His side. So the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” After saying this, He breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” (John 20:19-22)
Jesus came near to them and said, “All authority on heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18-20)
That’s what Jesus wants to teach some of us today.
Yes, He is risen!
Yes, we should celebrate!
Yes, yes, yes!
Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia!
But Jesus didn’t only rise on Easter.
He also gave us a down payment,
an inheritance,
an empowerment,
the Holy Spirit.
And with that, comes a responsibility,
a call,
instructions.
to go,
to make disciples of all nations,
to baptize,
to teach.
and to heal,
in His name.
He died,
and He rose!
for us.
He promised us that He’ll always be with us.
So now it’s our turn.
Yes, we celebrate!
Of course we celebrate!
And then we go.
