Christ is risen, but fear remains. The first day of the Resur-
rection, the first day of the world made new, is marked not by joy but by fear. The disciples hide away—not overcome with celebration but with terror. The particular fear John names has a direct tie to the...

Living God, breathe your peace upon me and all who surround me. Make me an instrument of your peace in the world; strengthen my heart in the face of anxiety and fear. Amen.


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Lectionary Week
April 2–8, 2018
Scripture Overview

Easter promises us the possibility of new life in Christ, but what should that life look like? Scripture makes clear that one sign of union with God is unity with each other. How wonderful it is, the psalmist says, when there is peace among brothers and sisters. Unity and peace do not mean simply the lack of conflict but proactive care for one another. The Christians in Acts lived out this care in a practical way by giving of their material means to help one another. John in his epistle tells us that this fellowship with one another is ultimately modeled on the fellowship we share with God and Christ, while in his Gospel, John teaches that belief in Jesus the Messiah is what binds us all together in this new life.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read Acts 4:32-35. In what ways have you experienced the generosity of community?
• Read Psalm 133. How and where do you experience the wild, extravagant love of God?
• Read 1 John 1:1–2:2. How do you keep ever before you the urgency and joy of Easter?
• Read John 20:19-31. What fears keep you locked away from the world?

Respond by posting a prayer.