The Proof

  As we continue to examine the appearances of Jesus after his resurrection, we see Jesus confirms the story of the two travelers by appearing to the whole group of disciples in Jerusalem while they are still talking about these mysterious happenings.  Jesus simply appears among them (Luke 24:36; John 20:19; Mark 16:14) even though they are in a locked room for fear of reprisals by other Jews.  
  Thinking they are seeing a ghost, they are both startled and frightened.  Jesus tells them not to be afraid and shows them the wounds on his hands and his feet. "Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have" (Luke 24:39).  In their amazement they still do not believe, so Jesus eats some broiled fish to prove to them that he is real.
  For reflection:  When have I locked myself away because of fear?  What does/did it take to prove to me that Jesus is really risen from the dead?
  Let us pray.  Jesus, I want to put away my fear of others and my fear of you.  I want to believe that you really rose from the dead and not care what others think of me because of that belief.

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