Fields United Methodist Church

Jesus Along the Way: Words of Grace and Hope.                           Pastor Tom Joyce

September 28, 2020

“Thomas answered him, My Lord and my God!”  John 20:28

This morning as I walked along in the darkness of the early morning, my prayers turned to all those who have had losses in their lives, especially during this season of pandemic. I have been praying for each of them daily but this morning was somehow different; I remembered the witness of those who rest from their labors and all that came to mind were the words of Thomas when he stood before the resurrected Jesus; “my Lord and my God.”  There is a great sense of comfort in this confession of faith, and a sense of peace knowing that all those who died in faith are alive forevermore, standing in the very presence of Jesus the Christ. There is hope along the way, there is assurance of everlasting life through Jesus who didn’t conquer the grave for his benefit, but for ours. My Lord and my God!  Along the walk this morning I envisioned all those who witnessed great faith and zeal for life, and all that came to mind was, “My Lord and my God!” When I thought about the families who are mourning the loss of someone dear, I envision Jesus journeying with them and actually carrying them along the way, and my soul proclaimed, “My Lord and my God.” Living a life in Christ is a living proclamation of hope for this life and the life to come.  Though the pain of loss runs deep, the love of God through Jesus runs deeper, offering hope, comfort, peace, and the strength to continue the journey, emboldened by the love of Christ Jesus. As my pace increased, not due to my little puppy pulling me but by the excitement that comes with faith, my heart was filled with the joy that could only come from the One who conquered the grave so that would be our victory as well; “O victory in Jesus, my Savior forever, he sought me, and bought me with his redeeming blood.” (“Victory in Jesus,” #370UMH) Take time along the way to celebrate Jesus, celebrate the joy of believing, celebrate the blessing of those who have been part of your life and will continue to be with you always.  What else can one say but, “My Lord and my God!”

Rev. Tom Joyce