Stations of the Resurrection: Station 7: Closed Room

Stations of the Resurrection

By

Raymond Chapman

Station 7

Closed Room

V         We adore thee O Christ and we bless thee

R.        Because by thy glorious Resurrection thou has given life to the world.

When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” (John 20:19)

The disciples were full of anxiety; the new hope that Jesus had risen did not overcome their fear of their human enemies. As they met in secret, Jesus came to them with the word of peace: no doors or locks could keep him out.

We give thanks for the peace that comes through Jesus Christ; we rejoice in his presence in our lives; in prayer, in sacraments, in every moment; even when we are anxious and preoccupied with the cares of this world.

We close our heart against the love of God, as the disciples closed their doors; we allow ourselves to be imprisoned by or fears and doubts. Help us to be open always to the coming of Christ, to receive the assurance of his peace and to proclaim him with confidence.

V         Christ is risen.

R         He is risen indeed.

V         Let us bless the Lord.

R         Thanks be to God.

So short a time since that last meal together, perhaps in the very room, Three days ago, they were all together, the fellowship unbroken, promising fidelity even to death. Then a night and a day of terror, a day of sorrow, a day of rumors, and visions – they were weary. Bewildered, unable to take any more.

            Close the doors against the world that threatens and destroys.

            Close the doors against the people who come to us, for they may bring trouble.

            Close the doors against the Lord who knocks and will not leave us alone.

Surely he comes in anger, in accusation of sin, comes to avenge the broken promises. The betrayal, the desertion. He is the God of justice vesting iniquity

But no he comes in peace, in love, the god of mercy and pardon. Wounded, he comes to heal all wounds. The grave could not keep him in; the doors cannot keep him out. He is not outside, he is here, he is among us as in the days that have gone, he is everywhere.

The day broke without hope, dark and menacing: now in the evening there is light and joy. Lord, what can we say, what can we do but receive with grace your word of peace.

It was the first day of the week, the first day of the new creation. The old power of sin and death had been broken and the power of life was filling the world, to restore the fellowship and make all things new.

           

Risen Lord, make me hear you voice and open my closed heart.

Come to me in the morning and in the evening.