Mary has been devastated by Jesus' death and is distraught that his body is missing. Her tears are transformed into joy when he says her name.
The disciples have been on a rollercoaster over the last 3 years and are now meeting in a locked room, more confused and terrified than ever. Ther fear is transformed into peace as they receive his spirit.
Thomas wasn't present when Jesus appeared to the rest of the disicples and can't believe what he is hearing. His doubt is turned into worship as he considers Jesus' wounds
These encounters continue in the next chapter and in the other gospels - Peter at the beach, the disciples on the road to Emmaus. No one who encounters the risen Jesus is left unchanged.
This is still true today.
- Tears are turned to joy as Jesus says your name
- Fear is turned to peace as you receive his spirit
- Doubt is turned to worship as you consider his wounds