Christian Counseling Service -- Devotions

Visitation

Tuesday, April 17, 2001

John 20:11-18
"Woman," Jesus said, "Why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?"

The Bible records 13 separate appearances of Jesus after his resurrection. Six of them are on the "third day" after his crucifixion, one a week later, four of them later still, one 40 days later and one several years later (when Jesus appeared to Paul).

The texts this week are all about these appearances. It's not difficult to get personally involved in a good story, and these are definitely good stories. I've heard them all over and over. They don't lose their drama.

When I put the story down and resume my day, my awareness of Jesus is strong at first and then begins to fade. The world is noisy and colorful, the people I meet fill my senses. Their eyes are deep, they smile, they sometimes speak wisely, crack good jokes, give and receive what I offer to give them.

This morning I woke up groggy and tried repeating the Lord's Prayer. Two or three times, halfway in I fell asleep again. Eventually I made it through. Now a couple hours later, the prayer fills me up. And I know my awareness of Jesus' companionship is not a credible measure of his presence. He opens my eyes to beauty, wisdom and joy. He walks right beside me. Jesus is alive.

So ... here it is:

Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come,
thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
Lead us
not into temptation, but
Deliver us
from evil.

For thine is the kingdom,
And the power,
And the glory
Forever and ever!
AMEN.

Devotions Archive

Visitation

Tuesday, April 17, 2001