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youth’? In this reflection I attempt to develop youth perspectives
of ‘shalom’ in the midst of the struggles and confusions portrayed
in the Johannine theology of cross, from the experiences of the
disciples particularly Thomas, the Apostle.

In John’s Gospel “Peace be with you” (20:19,21,26) is
Jesus’ post-resurrection greeting to his followers. It is, however,
more than a greeting. It is the bestowal of eschatological peace
on those who rejoice in His victory over death. (14: 27; 16: 33)

Peace Seeking Understanding

In the farewell discourse (Jn 14) Jesus explains the way
of cross to his disciples. He says The disciples need not be
troubled in heart for He is going to prepare a place for them.
This conversation continues and Jesus says, “You know the
way where I am going.” This leads Thomas (Cf 11:16) into an
expression of perplexity. He wants the position to be clear. He
responded “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how
can we know the way?” The youth’s fundamental honesty shines
through his words. The voice of Thomas represents the voices of
the youth always seeking understanding.

You Say Peace: How can I ?
On the evening of the first day of the week Jesus appears
before the ten (Judas and Thomas were absent). He enters the
room where his disbelieving and terrified friends are hiding. He
speaks to the ones who had abandoned him just a few nights
earlier, including Peter who betrayed him. “Peace (shalom) be
with you… “Peace (shalom) be with you” (Jn. 20:19-21). Then
Jesus commissions his disciples. Then Jesus bestowed on them
the Holy Spirit when he breathed on them and said “Receive the
Holy Spirit.”.

Later Thomas met the other disciples claiming that they
had seen Jesus, and they found their statement met with blank
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Lenten Meditations Re - Imaging People