In the early days following the Resurrection, Jesus appears to the disciples and different times and places.
The disciples’ world is uncertain as they come to terms with Jesus’s trial and crucifixion. What is important to note however, is that despite the disciple’s fear and uncertainty, regardless of how many questions or doubts they may have had, Jesus still comes to them.
Jesus is present with them making himself known to them in the breaking of bread, in them reaching and touching his wounds, Jesus is known to them walking along the road and realizing that their hearts are burning, and their eyes are opened in new ways.
Jesus is there with them as they struggle to make sense of their world once more. Seeing and witnessing become the new direction from Jesus. Jesus is there with them in the good, the bad and the ordinary of everyday.
In a world where every day is uncertain, a world where hospitals reach breaking points and borders close to travel, a world that struggles to find meaning in the Resurrection, Jesus shows up. Jesus comes to us in our world as broken and chaotic as it can be, Jesus comes to us and says, “Peace be with you.” I am here, I am right here with you. As it was then, so it is now, we are called to be witnesses to the Resurrection, witnesses to Jesus in our world.
As we come to terms with our changing and volatile world, perhaps the most faithful response from us to bear witness to the Resurrection is to keep on keeping on. Jesus is not looking for grand heroics, but rather a faithful response and answer to the call to follow him, even in a pandemic.
