Read John 20:24–21:14
Here, we encounter two powerful moments that reveal the nature of life with the risen Jesus. First, there is the dramatic encounter between Thomas and the resurrected Christ. Thomas, who had doubted Jesus’ resurrection, is invited by Jesus to touch His wounds and believe. Overcome, Thomas declares, “My Lord and my God!” (20:28). This powerful moment of revelation is followed by a quieter, more intimate scene in John 21, where the risen Jesus appears to His disciples by the Sea of Galilee. Instead of another dramatic display, Jesus prepares a simple meal of fish and bread, sharing breakfast with His friends.
These two moments—one of dramatic revelation and one of quiet fellowship—illustrate the rhythm of our spiritual lives. We often experience God in moments of intense power and transformation, where He dramatically intervenes, heals, or reveals Himself to us. These are the “Thomas moments” when we come face to face with His glory and are compelled to declare, “My Lord and my God!” These experiences are life-changing and fill us with awe at God’s majesty.
But just as important are the quiet moments, like the shared meal by the sea. After the drama of the resurrection, Jesus comes to His disciples in the simplicity of a meal, inviting them to sit, eat, and enjoy His presence. This moment reminds us that following Jesus is not just about experiencing His power but also about building a relationship with Him. In these quiet, simple moments, we find peace, rest, and connection with God and others.
Our lives should reflect this same balance. There are seasons when God works powerfully in us, revealing His glory in ways we cannot ignore. But there are also seasons of quiet relationship—of simply being with God and others. As followers of Jesus, we need both. We must embrace the drama of God’s powerful work but also cherish the simple, everyday moments of fellowship with Him and with those around us. Both are gifts from God and are vital to a full, flourishing life of faith.
Begin praying with Psalm 16:9:
“Therefore my heart is glad
and my whole being rejoices;
my body also rests securely.”