19 When it was evening on the first day of the week, Jesus' followers were together. The doors were locked, because they were afraid of the elders. Then Jesus came and stood right in the middle of them and said, "Peace be with you." 20 After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. His followers were thrilled when they saw the Lord. 21 Then Jesus said again, "Peace be with you. As the Father sent me, I now send you." 22 After he said this, he breathed on them and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven. If you don't forgive them, they are not forgiven." (John 20:19-23, New Century Version)
Most of us knows what CPR is. It is a life saving technique whereby one person puts their mouth over an unconscious person forcing air into their lungs. The hope is that this along with chest compressions a person will be revived so that they will avoid death. In Greek, the work for breath and spirit are the same! Hence, Jesus is breathing on us and pouring into us his life giving spirit.
Here is a meditation based on the above Scripture. Sit with your eyes closed. Imagine Jesus before you. Inhale deeply. As you inhale, let Him speak these words to you. Peace be with you.
Now exhale. Let your stale self-made air escape. Inhale again hearing the words, Peace be with you. Repeat this for several minutes until you feel relaxed, at peace.
Jesus provides us with His peace, that passes all understanding. But we must let go of ourselves so that He may breath new life into us!
PONDERING WITH THE PADRE: This is a place where I, when inspired by the Holy Spirit, can sow seeds to help each and everyone of us grow as true Christians. I believe God is Lord of all of His creation. All we can do is seek His will for our lives. We cannot please God by our own good works. The fruits of our faith are fruits of repentance, of a new heart!
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