The disciples out of fear shut the doors, secured and locked them against any unwelcome entry. However, this couldn’t hinder Jesus, Who came and stood in their midst. After deserting Jesus on the day of His crucifixion, the disciples probably expected words of rebuke or blame. Instead, Jesus brought words of peace, reconciling peace. “Peace to you,” is an assurance that there is no cause to fear, and that all is well: for they (Luke 24: 36) were alarmed by His manifestation (Trench). The same words Jesus speaks to us today in the midst of our fears, past, doubts, difficulties and challenges.
Jesus breathed on them saying, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” It was an act of re-creation, just as God breathed life into the first man. Jesus gave them the Holy Spirit, bringing new life and authority for their mission. In the same way, we’ve received the same Spirit that empowered and enabled Jesus’ words and works as an empowerment for an effective application of the work of Christ. Unfortunately, Thomas was absent, thus missed the blessings of being ‘present.’ Being absent in Hi presence will make us doubt the testimony of many and reliable witnesses, and miss the blessings of being in His presence.
