We are currently in the Easter Season, which extends until we celebrate Pentecost Day on May 19th. During this season, we reflect on Jesus’s continued presence among us and how we can experience the joy of the risen Lord. After his resurrection, though he appeared to them now and then, Jesus’ unseen continued presence was with his disciples. Though they could not see him with their physical eyes, Jesus was present, listening to their conversations. This is evident in his interaction with Thomas, who said he wanted to physically verify and feel the nail marks on Jesus’s body.
Throughout his earthly ministry, Jesus was always attentive to the needs of his followers, even when he was not physically present with them. For example, when Zacchaeus sought to catch a glimpse of Jesus by climbing a sycamore tree, Jesus, being omniscient, knew his desire and stopped beneath the tree, offering Zacchaeus to go with him to his house. This encounter led to Zacchaeus’s repentance and transformation. Similarly, when the disciples struggled to row their boat in the stormy sea, knowing their struggles, Jesus walked on water to come to rescue them. He also came to the grieving family of Martha and Mary knowing the death of Lazarus and raised the dead. These instances teach us that the Lord is always available to his people, especially during their difficult times.
The same continued even after his resurrection. When Cleopas and his companion journey away from Jerusalem, saddened by what had happened to Jesus, the risen Lord himself joins their conversation, finally revealed himself to them during the breaking of bread. Remember Jesus’ promise, “I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Mathew 28.20). C.S. Lewis says, “We may ignore, but we can nowhere evade the presence of God. The world is crowded with Him. He walks everywhere incognito.” The question then becomes not whether the risen Lord is with us, but rather how much we recognize and appreciate his presence in our lives. I think the thrill of experiencing God’s presence among us brings glory to his name. May the Lord help us become more aware of his constant presence in our lives.