Doubt

"When they heard that he was alive and had been seen by Mary Magdalene, they did not believe. After this he appeared in another form to two of them walking along on their way to the country. They returned and told the others; but they did not believe them either." Mk 16: 10-11

Doubt is often a way to protect ourselves. If we have been burned by an unscrupulous business, or these days, an internet company, we pull back and condemn computers, social networks and businesses in general. Years ago, when banks proved unresponsive to their customers' request to withdraw monies, people literally put their cash under their mattresses. When we are hurt or angry, we become very defensive.

No doubt, Jesus' closest disciples reacted in much the same way after his crucifixion. Brokenhearted and full of grief, they refused to listen to anyone who suggested they had seen Jesus. Only when he appeared to them directly, did they believe and respond to his command to go into the whole world without fear to announce God's gracious love for all.

Living through periods of doubt is natural for every believer. Sometimes, too busy with matters that don't really matter, we fail to pray, worship or offer service to others in need, but more often something frightens or confuses us, and we wonder where God is. In fact, God is where God always is, it is us who have moved or turned away. Opening our hearts and praying to be without fear can change everything.

Today, pause before a meal and invite the Lord to be with you as he was with his disciples after the resurrection.

Have you been full of doubts after a loved one died?