John 20:19

New King James Version

Then, the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst, and said to them, “Peace be with you.”

For Encouragement

The fear of the men continued after the crucifixion. They witnessed everything that led to that dark place in Golgotha. The Pharisees, teachers of the law, and Jewish authorities were breathing fire to destroy everything about Jesus and His teachings. He is an imposter and a fraud—demon-possessed and dangerous to the covenants of their fathers, so why stop at Calvary? The disciples were sure they were next to fall prey to their venom, so they hid, probably in the upper room, and bolted the doors behind them (Jn. 20:19).

Nothing made sense to them anymore, not even the news of the resurrection. Jesus told them before going to the cross, and He rose on the third day as He predicted. Mary Magdalene and the other women’s witness could not assuage their fears. Peter and John had verified the empty tomb. Yet, they could not wrap their minds around the reality of the resurrection. Instead of joy, their fear heightened. The locks on the doors became their guaranteed protection. Would you believe that?

A man walks in despite the security of the locks on the doors. It is their Risen Lord, but they remain in their stupor. Blessed Lord! He knows their disappointment, their sorrows, and even their anger. Jesus knows their trepidation and worries. Glory to God, the Resurrected Savior, knows what they need—a word to calm their fears and strengthen their faith.  

“Peace be with you!”

When He had said this, He showed them His hands and His side. The disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. What a scene! What lessons for our peace, too!

Despite all we know and have believed, despite our trusted personal relationship with Christ and our joy in His service, we still behave like the disciples sometimes.

Disappointments with Him often plague us. Sorrow sweeps over us with the passing of a loved one or a threatening health report. We get angry because we can’t hear from God when we need Him, and we worry about many things, especially tomorrow. Therefore, we hide and keep from closer fellowship with family and friends.

Are you not glad Jesus died and rose, and that your locked doors cannot keep Him from you? Are you not blessed? He is the Prince of Peace and comes into your fears and worries with His greetings of “peace be with you!” Or to your storms, “peace, be still!”

You do not need to see the nail prints in His hands and feet or the spear’s hole in His side. His indwelling Spirit is all you need to know to receive divine encouragement. When you face the threat of death, may the reality of His resurrected body assure you of yours in His for your eternal dwelling with Him.

Pray with Me

Lord, we need your shalom every day and in every circumstance of our lives. Thank you for your presence with us by your indwelling Holy Spirit. Amen!

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