April 26, 2020

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for April 26th: Acts 2:1-4,36-41; Psalm 116:1-4,12-19, 1 Peter 1:17-23, Luke 24:13-35; Theme: the Joy of Easter Luke: Where do you if you are looking for God? Where are the places in your life where you have actually found God? Most of us have found God in our relationships and in our chances to gather together in community. On this second Sunday of Easter we hear the familiar story of the road to Emmaus – where two people are just walking along in grief when they encounter Jesus. And when they gather together in fellowship – they realize they have sat in the presence of the risen Christ. Of course this story of relationships and community take on a whole new meaning in the corona virus age. Of course we have had to redefine the meaning of community. And yet we still do not have to redefine the hope that Christ brings to us. During Easter, we look at the ways that Jesus came to people in the midst of their grief. Let us be on the look out for the ways that Jesus walks amongst us during this pandemic. Acts: The Book of Acts is the story of how and why the church was started. The disciples went out into the street and told their experience with the Risen Christ. Much to the anger of the government – it worked, people listened and came to believe that there was really a God. Peter is the one who does most of the talking and telling of the story. In this scripture, Peter is standing before a crowd. He tells him that they are just as responsible for the crucifixion, and that in order to receive forgiveness that they have to be willing to change their behavior “Change your hearts and your minds”. Then they will receive enough hope in life to go forward. Peter’s willingness to tell his story makes a huge difference – over 3000 are baptized and willing to join the church. Today we are convinced that no one wants to hear the gospel story, no one wants to change, no one wants to join the church. But when was the last time that we were willing to really share the Easter story and see. When God’s word comes back it always makes a difference. Questions: How are you finding community in this time of isolation? How are you finding the presence of God in this time of isolation? Have you ever shared your story of faith? Who was willing to listen to you?