Then he opened their minds so they could understand the scriptures. He told them, "This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. I am going to send you what my father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high." - Luke 24:45-49
Even though we do not always think so, every individual in the church is important. We all have gifts that we bring to the community of believers for the purpose of expanding the kingdom of God here on earth. Someone said that each of us brings to the worship experience, our light, our response, our prayer, our confession, our love and compassion to be shared with others. Therefore, never believe that you don't make a difference.
The members of a church community are like members of a team. Each position is important. When one member is not functioning, the team suffers. We are all called to function in this body of Christ.
The above text tells us that Jesus came and stood in the midst of the apostles. These men whom Jesus had selected to change the world were all afraid. Together they hid behind closed doors, with fear and uncertainty. They were the ones who had also deserted him. After his crucifixion they ran away. He stood before them alive, in person, with words of peace. He came after them to show them his love and care for them.
Similarly, our grief and fear cause us to doubt God. Yet, when we are bewildered, confused and afraid, Jesus comes in our midst to comfort us and gives us reassurance. In their grief Jesus returned to them alive. He stood before them giving them proof of his resurrection. He invited them to touch him and then he asked for something to eat, to show them that he was not just a ghost.
As they slowly began to regain their composure, we are told, Jesus opened their minds so that they could understand the scriptures. He also opens our minds so that we can understand the scriptures.
By opening their minds, they would understand the real mission he had prepared them to carry out. They would be witnesses of his life's work, beginning in Jerusalem, the very place where they had failed him. He told them "You are witnesses of these things."
They were to tell and retell this good news, even though it would cost to them much grief. Nonetheless, Satan's darts did not impede their mission. They told it and retold it to the world. As a result, people everywhere came to faith in Jesus Christ.
They were obedient to their calling. Through their obedience and persistence, we are among the many who have come to faith. Our mission, like the apostles, is to also proclaim this gospel to the nations of the world. No one is to be excluded. God's grace and mercy are for all.
The gospel is for all people. Jesus assures us through his word, we are not alone. He has provided us with the Holy Spirit who anoints and gives us comfort.
How are you in your faith and your worship? Are you alive in Christ? What can you do? You do have gifts. Use them to bring others into the light of Jesus Christ. There are so many people in the world who live in darkness. They do not know Christ. Be a beacon to the people of the world. You are important to the mission of the church. Amen.
o Reverend Samuel M. Boodle, pastor at The Lutheran Church of Nassau, can be reached at P.O. Box N 4794, Nassau, Bahamas, or telephone 426-9084 E-mail: lutheranchurch@coralwave.com.
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