Daily Devotional
Peace Behind Locked Doors
Scripture
Now when it was evening on that day—the first day of the week—and the doors had been shut where the disciples were because of fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace to you.” And when he had said this, he showed his hands and his side to them. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. So Jesus said to them again, “Peace to you. As the Father has sent me, I also send you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them. If you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”
John 20:19–23
Reflection
The disciples gather behind locked doors, afraid after Jesus' execution. The risen Jesus comes among them and offers peace. He does not arrive to shame them for hiding or to pretend that the wounds of the crucifixion never happened. He shows them his hands and side. Resurrection meets fear and woundedness with a presence that makes a future possible. We also close doors when we feel threatened, exhausted, or unsure what to say. Sometimes a closed door is necessary for safety and rest; this passage is not an instruction to expose ourselves to danger. It does remind us that fear need not be the only voice shaping our future. Peace can begin as a gift received before we feel fully ready. Jesus then sends the disciples, giving them a purpose rooted in the peace they have received. We are not sent to force peace on others or ignore injustice. We are invited to carry the reconciling work of Christ with humility, truth, and care. A first step might be to ask for help, offer forgiveness when it is safe, or listen across a strained relationship. The risen Jesus meets us where we are and calls us toward life beyond fear.
Prayer
Risen Jesus, come near when fear makes us want to hide. Give us your peace, honor our wounds, and guide us toward wise acts of reconciliation and care.
Today's Question
What would receiving Christ's peace make possible in one relationship or decision?