One Last Prayer

An Easter Devotional by Sherry Amor

In the book of John, Jesus instructs Mary to not touch Him after His resurrection, because He had not yet ascended. But when Thomas, the Doubtful Disciple, desires to see the Lord for himself, Jesus not only goes to him, but encourages him to put his hand in Jesus’ side, so Thomas can fully believe. Thomas had one last prayer, and God does not forget our prayers. So, before Jesus could ascend to his rightful place at God’s throne, He had one last prayer to answer…and not just for Thomas.

The Doubtful Disciple. John 20:24-29

Thomas was one of the original twelve disciples who saw the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. Thomas’ doubt is notable because he wanted to see to believe, like everyone else who had witnessed Jesus’ miracles. But Thomas was not alone in his doubt. We probably doubt how we’re going to make ends meet, talk to that co-worker, or work on that relationship. We doubt ourselves, and we doubt Jesus. Until we actually see progress, it’s very hard to believe that something will happen. Fortunately, Jesus understands this. Just like He understood Thomas and showed Himself to him. Thomas was able to get his last prayer—to see his risen Saviour—and finally learn what it means to believe without seeing.

The Dedicated Disciples. John 21:1-6

The disciples returned to fishing, only to find no fish were coming into their net. Enter Jesus, who instructs them where to put the net so they would have an abundance of fish. And because of their obedience, they receive their rewards. These disciples were dedicated to Jesus once before, and they showed that they still were after the Resurrection. Their prayer was answered for fish, but becoming fishers of men would remain with them after the Ascension.

The Denying Disciple. John 21:15-19

            Peter was Jesus’ best friend, and the first to identify Him as the Messiah. Through Peter, the Christian Church was born, and the Gospel continued throughout generations. But there was a hiccup at the beginning of Peter’s ministry—denying Jesus (John 18:15-27). This is something we’ve all done at one point in our lives—including me. Doubt usually leads to fear, which could lead to a denial of any promise at all. Peter’s three denials, however, were met with three confessions of love for Jesus. His redemption was made on the cross, but the signifying event was on a beach, with Jesus and some fish. Peter’s turn around encouraged him to continue preaching the Gospel of Jesus to all who would hear. This denying disciple would become a devoted disciple, all because Jesus was with him.

I hope you enjoy/enjoyed your Easter weekend. It is a beautiful time of reflection, peace, and new beginnings. Remember, Jesus not only died for you, He hears your prayers. And He will answer every one.

Every. Last. One.

-Sherry Amor