Seeing is Believing!

Daily Reading: John 20

Scripture Focus: Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed. (John 20:29b)

Devotional Thought: John 20 records the turning point in human history – the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is the most crucial and game-changing moment of time, as creation is reconciled to the Father once again. Mary Magdalene was the first to see the empty grave, and the news quickly spread from there to the disciples and other followers of Jesus. The resurrection was met with joy, disbelief, doubt, and even fear.

So it is today also. Those who are spiritually deaf react to the gospel with skepticism, anger, and hostility, much like the Jewish religious leaders of Jesus’ time. There are also people who do not believe, but are seeking spiritual things. The false doctrine that runs rampant in our anything-goes, tolerate-all, if-it-feels-right-do-it culture is perfect for these doubters. The gospel message of sin, repentance, blood, and suffering is offensive, and so they are easy prey to a watered-down theology. Then there are others who receive the gospel with joy, and a supernatural belief like that of Peter and John when they discovered the empty grave. Many needed time and physical proof before they believed, Thomas being the best-known example.

All who believe in Jesus receive salvation. Thomas needed to actually touch Jesus’ crucifixion wounds before he would believe. Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed,” (v29). Most of us have not seen Jesus with our own eyes, but we can experience his presence plainly through the gift of the Holy Spirit. We can also read the Word to know him intimately, and even talk to him through prayer. These are gifts that we should never take for granted!

-Jenny

Prayer: Father, thank you for the gift of your Son, sent to redeem the world and reconcile us to you. May we never lose the sense of joy and wonder over the resurrection and the gospel message.

Psalm of the Day: 17 For I am ready to fall, and my pain is ever before me. 18 I confess my iniquity; I am sorry for my sin. 19 But my foes are vigorous, they are mighty, and many are those who hate me wrongfully. 20 Those who render me evil for good accuse me because I follow after good. 21 Do not forsake me, O LORD! O my God, be not far from me! 22 Make haste to help me, O Lord, my salvation! (Psalms 38:17-22)