“The Great Exchange”
After Jesus was raised on Easter, he appeared to his followers in different ways. Each of them came to Jesus with a particular emotion. In response, Jesus didn’t take away their feelings, but offered God’s truth in a way that brought them peace. Over the next 5 weeks we will spend time in John 20 and examine the interactions of Jesus and his followers; how Jesus exchanges our perceptions with God’s truth, which is always more than our feelings. We will also consider moments in our own lives when we have experienced these great exchanges.
April 8 John 20:1-2, 11-18
Mary Magdalene Emotion: Distress Jesus’ gift: Courage
When have you felt distressed and God gave courage? How did God exchange courage for your distress?
April 15 John 20:1-10
Peter Emotion: Defeat Jesus’ gift: Hope
When have you felt defeated and God gave hope? How did God exchange hope for your defeat?
April 22 John 20:1-10
John Emotion: Confusion Jesus’ gift: Certainty
When have you felt confused and God gave certainty? How did God makes this exchange for you?
April 29 John 20:19-23
The Disciples Emotion: Fear Jesus’ gift: Joy of the Holy Spirt
Share how God helped relieve a fearful situation in your life and describe the joy that resulted.
May 6 John 20:23-28
Thomas Emotion: Skepticism Jesus’ gift: Belief
When have you been skeptical and God helped your trust grow? Share this exchange happened.
May 13 John 20:29-31
Us! Emotion: Trust Jesus’ gift: Shalom
Share a time when you trusted God and God was faithful to you. How did that bring about peace?
Blessings – Michael