“On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you!’” — John 20:19

The image of the disciples huddled together in a locked room, consumed by fear, is both a powerful and relatable scene. Many of us have experienced moments where fear feels like a tangible presence, locking us away from the world and shrouding us in uncertainty. In such times, we often build walls around ourselves, both physically and emotionally, hoping to shield ourselves from perceived threats. Yet, in this verse, we are reminded of the profound peace that Jesus offers, a peace that transcends locked doors and anxious hearts.

In the midst of their fear, Jesus’s presence among the disciples is a testament to the idea that true peace comes not from the absence of conflict, but from the presence of something greater. Jesus’s simple yet profound greeting, “Peace be with you,” serves as a reminder that His peace is not conditional on our circumstances or even our state of mind. It’s a peace that can penetrate the deepest fears and bring comfort to the most troubled hearts. It challenges us to reconsider where we seek solace and security. Do we rely solely on our defenses, or do we allow the peace of Christ to enter into our lives, even when we feel vulnerable?

This verse also calls us to reflect on the nature of fear itself. Often, fear can be isolating, driving a wedge between us and others, as well as between us and God. The disciples were united in their fear, yet it took the presence of Jesus to truly bind them together in peace. In our own lives, we may find that reaching out to others, even in our fear, allows space for peace to grow. When we let down our defenses, we open ourselves not only to the possibility of community but also to the transformative power of divine peace.

As we navigate our own locked doors and fears, let us remember that peace is not something we must achieve on our own. Instead, it is a gift freely given, waiting to be embraced. May we open the doors of our hearts to the peace that transcends understanding, allowing it to guide us through even the most daunting of circumstances.