I have seen the Lord

I have seen the Lord

The music, the incense, the renewal of our baptismal vows, and the welcoming of those entering the Church—the Easter liturgy is so beautiful that memories from last weekend may still be lingering in your mind.   During such a celebration, it’s easy to say, with Mary Magdalene, “I have seen the Lord” (John 20:18).

Yet our faith tells us that the risen Christ is always with us, not just on Easter and not just when we’re in church before the tabernacle.   He died and rose so that he could live within us and be close to us at all times.   But just as Mary had difficulty recognizing Jesus in the garden, we often fail to notice that the Lord is with us in concrete, real-life ways.

This month’s articles are all about raising our expectations for what God can do in us this Easter season.   For instance, what would happen if you expected to “see” the Lord on a regular basis?   Where might you recognize his presence and how he is working in your life?

• When you have been praying for something for a long time, and your prayer is answered in a way you didn’t expect.

• When a Scripture verse strikes you in a totally new way and helps you get through a difficult circumstance.

• When you are able to forgive someone who has hurt you deeply.

• When you realize you need to correct a bad habit, and you are able to do so.

• When you and your spouse are finally able to see eye to eye on a thorny issue that has caused conflict in the past.

• When you see someone who is hurting or needy and are able to help that person.

Of course, this isn’t an exhaustive list.   God is infinitely creative in the times and ways he reveals himself.   So expect him to “show up” each day.   Then try to keep your eyes open for his presence.   You may just be surprised at how often he is part of every detail and concern of your life.

Word Among Us