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First Word, April 3rd: Peace Be With You

By April 3, 2020First Word

So when it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and when the doors were shut where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” And when He had said this, He showed them both His hands and His side. The disciples then rejoiced when they saw the Lord. So Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you; as the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” And when He had said this, He breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” (John 20:19-22)

The Disciples are found in the Upper Room practicing social distancing , for different reasons than we are these days but with many of the same feelings. Fear, isolation, and worry that being outside may be dangerous. The Disciples are locked away afraid to be outside, but Jesus comes to them. He doesn’t wait for their fear to disperse; he comes through doors that are meant to keep everything out, so that he can be with the disciples and speak these words. “Peace be with you” words that are so important he says them twice. Wherever you are today, hear these words for yourselves too, “peace be with you.”

Jesus came to the disciples and he comes to you too. Offering peace and hope during these days. May you be surrounded by this peace, uplifted by God’s hope, and assured that God comes to you in your home. Our God remains the same. Amen.

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Pastor Halcyon Bjornstad was an FLBC camper from infant-high school, staff member 2006-08, and is now serving at New Life Lutheran Church in Helena MT.  A few of her FLBC favs: Favorite Campfire Song: I Lift My Eyes Up (Psalm 121), Favorite Big Field Game: Mighty Mighty Scoop Noodle Challenge. Favorite Place at FLBC: The New Lakeview Cabin.