This morning my husband, Max, preached about Christ’s third appearance to his disciples, when he asked Peter three times if he loved him (leaving Peter very perplexed!).  I thought it would be interesting to look at all three appearances that Christ made to his disciples following the resurrection.  Doing so helps us to understand what Jesus calls us, as Christians, to do.

Cross: In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Invitatory Bead: “Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you.’”  (John 20:19 NIV)

1st Cruciform Bead: Jesus, our risen Lord, we thank you for your gift of the Holy Spirit, who enables us to forgive the sins of others, just as our sins have been forgiven (John 20:22 – 23):

1st set of Week Beads: use each bead to ask for forgiveness, and to name those whom you need to forgive.

2nd Cruciform Bead: Jesus, our risen Lord, we know that you have called us to believe in you, even though we haven’t seen you (John 20:29).  We believe.  Lord, help our unbelief: 

2nd set of Week Beads: use each bead to pray for strength of faith, particularly in those times when your faith has been weakened or threatened.

3rd Cruciform Bead: Jesus, our risen Lord, you have charged us with the responsibility to feed your sheep (John 21:17):

3rd set of Week Beads: use each bead to meditate on the many ways in which you can be in ministry to Christ’s sheep.

4th Cruciform Bead: Jesus, our risen Lord, you have called us, simply, to follow you (John 21:19):

4th set of Week Beads: use each bead to meditate on the ways in which you are called to follow Jesus.

Invitatory Bead: recite the Lord’s Prayer

Cross: In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.