1. Luke 24:36-48

2. Living Witness For the God of Love

3. Today’s Take Away 1.We are called to “witness” to God’s amazing love in Jesus 2.We have to be in touch with our fear, our joy, and our uncertainty (doubt) BEFORE we can witness 3.Our witness has to be bold and progressive; a LIVING WITNESS 1.We are called to “witness” to God’s amazing love in Jesus 2.We have to be in touch with our fear, our joy, and our uncertainty (doubt) BEFORE we can witness 3.Our witness has to be bold and progressive; a LIVING WITNESS

4. Commissioning of the Disciples 1.Jesus brings peace (NOT judgment) in his resurrection 2.The disciples were terrified; they had joy; they had disbelief 3.He ate with them 4.A reflection on prophetic witness 5.Commission (a call to “Witness”): Repentance and forgiveness of sins to all nations beginning in Jerusalem 1.Jesus brings peace (NOT judgment) in his resurrection 2.The disciples were terrified; they had joy; they had disbelief 3.He ate with them 4.A reflection on prophetic witness 5.Commission (a call to “Witness”): Repentance and forgiveness of sins to all nations beginning in Jerusalem

5. Describe “Witness” Merriam-Webster: Attestation to a fact or event; one who gives evidence; one who has personal knowledge of something 1.The fact is that God makes a difference in your life. 2.The event is the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. 3.The evidence is your commitment. 4.The knowledge is your spiritual growth through spiritual education and enrichment.

6. Getting in Touch with Yourself 1. Fear In worship; In baptism; in communion; in a life of service 2. Joy When we get past the fear, we will experience the joy 3. Doubt Doubt will always be a part of the mix 1. Fear In worship; In baptism; in communion; in a life of service 2. Joy When we get past the fear, we will experience the joy 3. Doubt Doubt will always be a part of the mix

7. How are we “witnessing”? 1.Simply saying: “I am a Christian.” 2.Connection to a faith community. 3.Living a life of repentance and forgiveness. 4.“Love of God and neighbor.”

8. The Witness of Presence; a LIVING WITNESS 1.Our thoughts influence our actions 2.When we say “yes” to God, we say “no” to injustice of any kind

9. Now What? 1.During this week – keep in your mind that you represent the resurrected Christ. 2.Do your best to be a LIVING WITNESS; share the peace God gives you, do good for those who need you, and pray without ceasing so that God knows your commitment to carry on the faith.

10. Prayer Dear Lord, Thank you for your witness through Jesus of Nazareth. We believe, O God help us in our unbelief. Give us the ability to overcome our fear and reluctance so that we can bring the peace that passes understanding to a world in need of Good News. In Jesus name we pray. Amen Dear Lord, Thank you for your witness through Jesus of Nazareth. We believe, O God help us in our unbelief. Give us the ability to overcome our fear and reluctance so that we can bring the peace that passes understanding to a world in need of Good News. In Jesus name we pray. Amen