April 26 Virtual Worship
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Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty
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Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
Scripture Lesson
Sunday, April 26, 2026
Scripture Reading: Luke 24:36-43
Sermon: Disbelieving Joy
Luke 24: 36-43
36 While they were talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 37 They were startled and terrified and thought that they were seeing a ghost. 38 He said to them, “Why are you frightened, and why do doubts arise in your hearts? 39 Look at my hands and my feet; see that it is I myself. Touch me and see, for a ghost does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.” 40 And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. 41 Yet for all their joy they were still disbelieving and wondering, and he said to them, “Have you anything here to eat?” 42 They gave him a piece of broiled fish, 43 and he took it and ate in their presence.
Key Idea of the Sermon
Today we continue the Easter Day narrative recorded by Luke. The last two Sundays we studied the Walk to Emmaus. We were inspired to pay attention for the presence of the Risen Jesus, who is our constant companion. Jesus joins us on the journeys of our lives offering guidance and support, making himself known in the community of disciples as we worship and break bread. Today’s story explores the nature of the Risen Jesus. Jesus seems to be a different version of the one the disciples knew before this death. It is important to the narrator that we know Jesus is not a “ghost” (24:37). He is not always recognized (24:16). He unexpectedly vanishes (24:31) and appears (24:36). And yet, Jesus invites his disciples to touch him (24:39), and he eats a piece of fish in their presence (24:43). Jesus seems to have a heavenly form that is both physical and spiritual; another mystery that will be revealed when we take the journey through death to the promised new life.
Questions for Reflection
• Today’s story may be a foretaste of our resurrected form on the other side of death. How does it make you feel to know that we will be recognizable, with signs of our healed wounds, not bound by the same constraints of time and place, and yet able to communicate and relate in some ways consistent with our current earthly forms? • The Risen Jesus comes to disciples with the greeting “peace be with you”. How do you experience peace in your daily life? Might this be a sign of Jesus’ presence?
A Spiritual Practice to Try
As you walk through each day this week keep your heart open and your attention alert to Jesus’ companionship. Stay mindful of signs of new life and fresh perspectives and follow that way.
If you need some guidance or support, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com
