This morning we see Jesus sneak in to visit his frightened disciples
even though the doors are locked. He returns without recriminations or regrets,
no reproaches. Think of all the things he could have said: “You left me, you
denied me. You feel asleep. How could you have done this?” But he’ll have none
of it. He is utterly defenseless, wounded, disfigured forever by his passion.
The scene is absolutely astounding in its simplicity. He is essentially silent,
almost forlorn, coming through the locked doors as if on tiptoe. Jesus simply
says, “Peace.” He offers them the gift of silent acceptance and unconditional
love. Peace. He gladly shows the disciples his wounds, the holes that love has
made in his heart, in his hands and feet. And here at last in silence He
teaches us with his Body. He shows us his wounds and so reveals God’s forgiving
love in and through his own disfigured humanity.* For on the cross he has given himself completely and so has made known God’s
great love for us. His wounds are the signs of this love, God’s wonderful
secret, they make clear what love has done to God’s heart to God’s beautiful
body. God is wounded forever out of love for us. No wonder the apostles are
glad. No wonder Jesus delights to quietly show us his wounds for they show how
much he loves us.
*See Nathan Mitchell, Worship,
March 2006.
