Wednesday, April 22

I am sending you.

This is our third day in a row where we are focusing on these words from John 20…

On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.”  20   When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord.  21   Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.”  John 20:19-21

“As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” Jesus was sent by the Father. He did not remain safely tucked in heaven. He willingly became a human. He entered our corrupt existence. He focused on the mission of saving the world. He gave his life. He conquered death. 

The Father sent the Son. Now, the Son sends his followers. Jesus Christ sends you and me to engage the world like the Father sent him to engage the world. That means we no longer live for ourselves. That means we do not selfishly fixate on our personal needs and desires. It means we recognize that we are here for others. 

In these days of the pandemic, there are many examples where followers of Jesus are living their “sentness” by reaching out to others. Some are calling residents of an assisted living facility to read scripture and pray with them. Others are regularly contacting friends to bring encouragement and support. Some are spending more time in prayer, interceding for the sick, the lost and the lonely. Others are discovering how God has “sent” them to love their families in new and unique ways.

How is God sending you to bring His peace to others?  Is it by a phone call, a card, a text, an email, an online video group meeting? 

Perhaps you might consider asking God: “Who do you want me to reach out to today?” 

Remember we are sent with the peace which Jesus Christ has given
to us. 

  1. Be still.
  2. As you slowly breathe, align these words to the rhythm of your breath: “peace be with you.”
  3. As you silently repeat this prayer, know that these words are from your savior, Jesus Christ.