Roberta needed a change of...
Illustration
Object:
Roberta needed a change of scenery. Her husband died following a brief illness. She was trying her best to cope with the sudden loss of her husband. It was difficult being alone every day plus she had the task of going through her husband's clothing and personal belongings. There were days when she would find something that brought back a special memory that would bring tears to her eyes.
Her son, Tom, invited her to go to the beach with him and his family for a few days. Reluctantly, Roberta agreed even though she had much to do at home.
One day she sat for an hour watching the ocean while Tom and his family went shopping at the outlets. Roberta was able to clear her mind of all the events of the past six months. She could not remember the last time she felt so relaxed.
Sitting and watching the waves come in and go out she felt as though God was speaking to her. She found a new sense of meaning for her life. She felt alive again. She would go back to her church and start a grief support group where people could share their stories and work through their losses.
The disciples were grieving Jesus' death. As they were meeting, trying to make sense out of what had happened; the risen Lord Jesus appeared to them, "Peace be with you." The disciples were both startled and frightened. Jesus showed them his hands and feet. Their grief turned into joy! Jesus was alive! More importantly they realized that they had a job to do -- Jesus needed them just like Jesus needs each and every one of us today to share the good news with others!
Her son, Tom, invited her to go to the beach with him and his family for a few days. Reluctantly, Roberta agreed even though she had much to do at home.
One day she sat for an hour watching the ocean while Tom and his family went shopping at the outlets. Roberta was able to clear her mind of all the events of the past six months. She could not remember the last time she felt so relaxed.
Sitting and watching the waves come in and go out she felt as though God was speaking to her. She found a new sense of meaning for her life. She felt alive again. She would go back to her church and start a grief support group where people could share their stories and work through their losses.
The disciples were grieving Jesus' death. As they were meeting, trying to make sense out of what had happened; the risen Lord Jesus appeared to them, "Peace be with you." The disciples were both startled and frightened. Jesus showed them his hands and feet. Their grief turned into joy! Jesus was alive! More importantly they realized that they had a job to do -- Jesus needed them just like Jesus needs each and every one of us today to share the good news with others!
