Be Strong Courageous in Body Mind Spirit For the Long Journey

Apr 19, 2026 • Pastor Tammy Long

For Your Heart Today

In John 20, the disciples are gathered together, trying to make sense of everything that has just happened. Jesus has been crucified, there are reports that He is alive, and they are holding fear, confusion, and uncertainty in that space.

And then Jesus comes to them. He speaks peace, shows them His scars, and when they recognize Him, they are filled with joy. Then Jesus says, “As the Father has sent me, so I am sending you.” And He breathes on them and says, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”

This is a defining moment.

But what follows is a journey. Over time, we see them learning to live aligned with the Father, filled with the Spirit, and growing into a strength and courage in body, mind, and spirit that they did not have before.

Something has shifted. They are empowered.

And the same is true for us. We are given the same invitation—to receive the Holy Spirit and to be sent to live as Jesus lived, empowered by the same Spirit and formed over time for the long journey of walking with God.

4 Takeaways

Being sent is about alignment, not just assignment.

We are sent to live connected to the Father, just as Jesus did.

We are not sent alone—we are sent with the Spirit.

God’s presence within us empowers the life He calls us to live.

Transformation happens over time.

Strength and courage are formed as we continue walking with God.

We are invited into the same journey.

To receive the Spirit, to be sent, and to be formed for the long journey of life with God.

Breath Prayer

Inhale: Risen Lord

Exhale: Send me in Your Spirit