I cannot imagine the range of emotions that Jesus’ first disciples encountered surrounding his crucifixion and resurrection. The total despair of Jesus’ death was replaced with disbelief when they first saw him resurrected. Any of us would have had the same reaction. Dead people do not come back to life after three days, no wonder they had a hard time accepting the truth that he was actually alive. Then their skepticism turned to overwhelming joy.

For the next forty days Jesus appeared at various times to different people and groups of people seemingly without rhyme or reason. He didn’t announce his visitations he simply appeared without advanced notice. I wonder if we would live our lives differently if Jesus would appear to us at random moments without advanced notice? Would we reconsider what we are planning or stop what we are doing just in case Jesus might make an appearance? Our lives might look quite different if we suspected that Jesus could show up at any time in the midst of whatever we are doing.

The physical presence of Jesus appearing in our lives randomly would be alarming to most people. It would be embarrassing if Jesus caught us in the act of doing something that would cause us to regret our actions or words. The lack of advanced notice would probably cause us to reconsider some of our regular activities and change our normal habits.

The truth is that for every “believer” (one who has made a conscious decision to accept salvation in Christ Jesus) the indwelling Holy Spirit is part of everything we do, every action we take, word we say and even our thought life. Every disciple of Christ involves God in every aspect of their lives whether we invite Him or not; He is our constant companion. This thought may be overwhelming to some people.

Today as you consider pausing at noon to Bend-A-Knee in prayer may you ask God to help you take the responsibility of being the vessel of the Holy Spirit seriously. May this fact cause you to consider your actions, words and thoughts in light of the Guest of Honor that inhabits your daily life. My prayer for you is that you will become more intentional in the way your live your life knowing that God is always with you. May the thought of the Holy Spirit ‘s abiding presence bring you comfort and confidence to live your life in a manner that brings honor and glory to God’s Kingdom.

Stay connected to God & to others

God’s Peace,

Pastor Mike