April 7, 2024 "Start With Forgiveness"

The disciples are locked in a room. Jesus comes through the door and suddenly dead isn't dead anymore. Twice he says, "Peace be with you." Says, "As the Father is sending me, so I'm sending you." Here's what I think Jesus might be getting at: "Just like I created an environment for you to be transformed - become new - I'm now sending you into the world to create that kind of environment for others to be transformed - so that the world can be transformed." That's what the church is about. Where do we start, Jesus? He's all - start with forgiveness. I think he says start with forgiveness because forgiveness is a lot like resurrection. To forgive is to participate in resurrection. So Jesus sends us into the world with a message - forgiveness. God loves the world, the kingdom of God is near, this world matters, bring good news to the poor, release the captives. But we have more than a message - we're called to participate in resurrection in the world. If we would actually show love, grace, healing, forgiveness - actually participate in resurrection I think more people would want to get in on what God is up to in the world. Speaker: Aaron Vis Scripture: John 20:19-23 http://bible.com/events/49241284