Did Jesus Just Turn Down a Hug? What He Said to Mary and Thomas Changes Everything 5.10.26 9:30 am

This sermon explores the profound connection between the Old Testament Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) and the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The pastor explains that Jesus' resurrection wasn't an isolated event but the fulfillment of God's plan for atonement established in Leviticus 16. Through the parallel encounters of Mary Magdalene and Thomas with the risen Christ, we see how Jesus meets people exactly where they are—whether they lead with their hearts or their heads. The seemingly contradictory commands "do not touch me" to Mary and "touch me" to Thomas reveal that Jesus was in the midst of completing the atonement ceremony, serving as both the sacrifice and the High Priest presenting Himself to the Father. The sermon emphasizes that because of the completed work of atonement, we have direct access to God through prayer, and Jesus always makes time for those who need Him, offering forgiveness and drawing close to all who seek Him.