January 27, 2021 -- John 20:24-26 -- Defying Cancel Culture

Now Thomas, one of the twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into his side, I will never believe.” Eight days later, his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them.

John 20:24-26 English Standard Version

What is striking about this passage is how it stands against today’s ‘cancel culture’. This cancel culture summarized as: ‘if you don’t agree with me, I will cancel you from my life’. Thomas did not believe Jesus had risen from the dead. Even though the other disciples were in the upper room one week before and they had seen the risen Savior. Thomas was steadfast, curmudgeonly in his rebellious unbelief. HE wasn’t there. He didn’t see. He would not believe. How did the other disciples respond?

Well, the other disciples kept inviting Thomas to their times of worship. The other disciples obviously kept speaking to Thomas about Jesus and His resurrection. The following Sunday Doubting Thomas was with the assembled disciples back in the upper room. What patient love the other disciples must have shown to Thomas. How compelling their invitations to stay within the fellowship, and we draw that conclusion because Thomas was there with the other disciples. Then Jesus reappeared.

During these Covid-19 crisis times, who needs your persistent love? Who needs to see your dedication to the Risen Savior and hear your kind and persistent invitations to join in for worship? Do not take on the hateful cancel culture tone of the world around you. In view of the peace only Jesus can bring, be persistent and faithful in your invitations to the people in your life that they may encounter the living, Risen Savior Jesus.

Spirit of God, thank You for Your work in the hearts and lives of those who, under Your direction led us to Jesus Christ. Thank You for their faithfulness and persistence. Spirit of God move us to holy boldness to reach out to friends, co-workers, and neighbours with the Good News of salvation which is found in Christ alone. Father in heaven, thank You that from the time before the world was even formed, You chose men and women, children and infants to be Your beloved people, drawn to Yourself in Jesus Christ. With the assurance You, Spirit of God, are sending us to bring to full measure the family of heaven, let us go out with this Good News. Forgive us for work undone. Forgive us for fields unwon. In view of the greatness of the salvation lavished on us in Christ Jesus, guarded in us by the rich deposit of the Spirit, direct us Father to the family members yet to be drawn in. Blessed are You, Triune God. Amen.

https://youtu.be/FBTluxqFu_A