Luke 24:36-48

Living WitnessLiving WitnessFor the God of LoveFor the God of Love

Today’s Take AwayToday’s Take Away

1. We are called to “witness” to God’s amazing love in Jesus

2. We have to be in touch with our fear, our joy, and our uncertainty (doubt) BEFORE we can witness

3. Our witness has to be bold and progressive; a LIVING WITNESS

1. We are called to “witness” to God’s amazing love in Jesus

2. We have to be in touch with our fear, our joy, and our uncertainty (doubt) BEFORE we can witness

3. Our witness has to be bold and progressive; a LIVING WITNESS

Commissioning of the DisciplesCommissioning of the Disciples

1. Jesus brings peace (NOT judgment) in his resurrection

2. The disciples were terrified; they had joy; they had disbelief

3. He ate with them

4. A reflection on prophetic witness

5. Commission (a call to “Witness”): Repentance and forgiveness of sins to all nations beginning in Jerusalem

1. Jesus brings peace (NOT judgment) in his resurrection

2. The disciples were terrified; they had joy; they had disbelief

3. He ate with them

4. A reflection on prophetic witness

5. Commission (a call to “Witness”): Repentance and forgiveness of sins to all nations beginning in Jerusalem

Describe “Witness”Merriam-Webster: Attestation to a fact or event; one who gives evidence; one who has personal knowledge of something

•The fact is that God makes a difference in your life.•The event is the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.•The evidence is your commitment.•The knowledge is your spiritual growth through spiritual education and enrichment.

Getting in Touch with YourselfGetting in Touch with Yourself

1. FearIn worship; In baptism; in communion; in a life of service

2. JoyWhen we get past the fear, we will experience the joy

3. DoubtDoubt will always be a part of the

mix

1. FearIn worship; In baptism; in communion; in a life of service

2. JoyWhen we get past the fear, we will experience the joy

3. DoubtDoubt will always be a part of the

mix

How are we “witnessing”?1. Simply saying: “I am a Christian.”2. Connection to a faith community.3. Living a life of repentance and forgiveness.4. “Love of God and neighbor.”

The Witness of Presence; a LIVING WITNESS

1. Our thoughts influence our actions

2. When we say “yes” to God, we say “no” to injustice of any kind

Now What?1. During this week – keep in your mind that you

represent the resurrected Christ.2. Do your best to be a LIVING WITNESS; share the

peace God gives you, do good for those who need you, and pray without ceasing so that God knows your commitment to carry on the faith.

PrayerDear Lord,

Thank you for your witness through Jesus of Nazareth. We believe, O God help us in our unbelief. Give us the ability to overcome our fear and reluctance so that we can bring the peace that passes understanding to a world in need of

Good News.In Jesus name we pray. Amen

Dear Lord,Thank you for your witness through Jesus of Nazareth. We believe, O God help us in our unbelief. Give us the ability to overcome our fear and reluctance so that we can bring the peace that passes understanding to a world in need of

Good News.In Jesus name we pray. Amen