The Gospel of John opens with the words ‘In the beginning.’ Here, John is giving us the key to understanding his whole Gospel as a new creation account with Christ at the centre. And as Genesis narrates the formation of the cosmos and humanity by the breath of God, John proclaims a new genesis arising through Christ’s resurrection.

In Genesis, we see the Spirit (in response to God speaking His Word) hovering over the waters, bringing order from chaos, and the breath of God being put into humanity. In John Chapter 20, we see the Logos of creation, Jesus, breathing new Life into His disciples, and commissioning them to bring this Life to all humanity. Jesus sets up the disciples (and us!) in the work of divine renewal of the cosmos. We participate in God’s ongoing creative and redemptive work, which includes forgiveness and reconciliation. Knowing that Jesus has conquered Death through the resurrection gives us peace, His first word to the fearful disciples.

So, do not be afraid; you are empowered by the same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead to bring life, bringing peace and restoration to a world that groans for renewal.

With this understanding let us listen to words of Jesus empowering us for mission:

‘As the Father has sent me, so I send you.’

When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them:

‘Receive the Holy Spirit.

If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven;

If you retain the sins of any, they are retained.’

By Paul Asnicar