Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.
John 20:30-31
My favorite telling of Jesus’ resurrection is in John’s Gospel. I love the way Jesus appears to Mary Magdalene in the garden outside the tomb. At first, she doesn’t recognize him, but when he calls her name, “Mary” she immediately turns and knows that Jesus is the one speaking to her. Isn’t that also our deepest need?
· to know and be known
· to be loved and cared for
· to hear our name spoken on the lips of people who radiate the joy of knowing Jesus
In chapter 20, after Jesus also appeared to his disciples and then to Thomas, John tells us the purpose of his writing. His testimony to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus is so that all who hear it and all who read it may believe “that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God.” And not only believe it, but that by believing, they may “have life in his name.”
That’s why we gather for worship, prayer, and Bible study. That’s why we gathered during Holy Week on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday to hear again the story of Jesus’ passion and resurrection.
That’s why the Easter story is too good to keep to ourselves. That’s why we invite friends, neighbors, family, and co-workers to join us for worship, Bible study, and service opportunities like our Food Pantry and DZ meals.