Post Easter Blues

Wednesday, April 4, 2018

John 20:24-25: Now Thomas, one of the twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord." But he said to them, "Unless I see in His hands the make of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into His, side, I will never believe."

Those last word are harsh. They are powerful. I've been told many times, "Never say, 'Never.'" Thomas was so devastated at the "loss" of Jesus, that he shut down. His faith, love, and trust in Jesus was so broken, that he used the "never" word. This is what I call, "The Post Easter Blues."

That is devastation and grief. Have you ever had "one of those days?" We all have to one degree or another. We all get discouraged, despondent, and defeated. And what is the cause of all of this? In many cases, it's fear. Thomas was afraid. He probably was afraid his faith in Jesus was in vain, that he wasted three years of his life. He probably was afraid that the Jewish leadership would come after him, like they came after Jesus. And like many people who are in his state of mind, he tried to handle it alone. And when the good news was told to him, Thomas lashed out angrily. Thomas did not see Jesus. He didn't trust his friends and brothers, who he was with for three years. Only through his own eyes, would Thomas believe.

Thank God, the rest of the disciples did not let Thomas stay alone and angry. They brought him in. The waited for Jesus to come to them again and remove from Thomas "The Post Easter Blues." He saw Jesus and believed.

Are you dealing with "The Post Easter Blues?" Are you struggling with loss that prevents you from seeing that Jesus is alive and that He is ready and able to help? Are you struggling with hurts you think that no one can help you with? Jesus is alive! He is here with us. "Stop doubting and believe." Trust God, Father, Jesus, and Holy Spirit. Trust also that there are believers through whom God works who won't give up on you, either. When you're in with the "Body of Christ," their is equipping of your faith, there is encouragement and hope, and engagement of your life with love. Come and experience the "mutual consolation of the brothers." Holy Spirit, be with all who are struggling and lead them to Your body, amen.