How can we discern Jesus' presence in our lives like Mary in John 20:14? Setting the Scene “After she said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not recognize that it was Jesus.” (John 20:14) Mary had walked with Jesus, listened to Him, loved Him deeply—yet in this moment she could not tell it was the risen Lord before her. What she eventually discovered teaches us how to discern His nearness today. What Blocked Mary’s Recognition? • Grief: her tears blurred both eyes and heart (John 20:11) • Assumptions: she expected a sealed tomb, not a living Savior • Circumstances: early morning shadows, unfamiliar setting, and the shock of an empty grave These same factors—emotional weight, preconceived ideas, confusing surroundings—often veil His presence in our own lives. Assurance of His Ongoing Presence • Hebrews 13:5b — “I will never leave you, nor will I ever forsake you.” • Matthew 28:20b — “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Because Scripture is true and literal, Jesus’ nearness is a present reality, not mere sentiment. Practical Ways to Discern Jesus’ Presence 1. Focus on His Word • Mary heard Jesus call her name (John 20:16). • Daily, intentional reading allows the living Word to speak personally (Psalm 119:105). 2. Yield Emotions to Truth • Grief did not change the fact of resurrection; truth steadied Mary once recognized. • Philippians 4:6-7: lay every anxious thought before Him and receive His peace. 3. Invite the Spirit’s Illumination • Luke 24:31—“Then their eyes were opened and they recognized Him.” The same Spirit opens ours. • John 14:26—He teaches and reminds us of all Jesus said. 4. Cultivate Expectant Faith • 2 Corinthians 5:7—“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” • Expectancy positions us to notice subtle affirmations of His guidance. 5. Engage in Worship and Fellowship • Psalm 22:3—He inhabits the praises of His people. • Matthew 18:20—He manifests among gathered believers. 6. Obey Quickly • John 20:17—Mary ran to tell the disciples; obedience deepened her encounter. • John 14:21—those who keep His commandments experience His self-revelation. Living with Continual Awareness • Regularly rehearse His promises aloud. • Journal moments of sensed nearness to build a testimony reservoir. • Serve others; Jesus identifies Himself with “the least of these” (Matthew 25:40). • Hold circumstances loosely—He may appear in unexpected forms, yet always in line with Scripture. Encouragement to Remain Watchful Mary’s story shows that Jesus can be nearer than we imagine, even when tears or trials cloud our vision. By anchoring ourselves in trustworthy Scripture, guarding our hearts with truth, and living in responsive obedience, we will, like Mary, discern the risen Lord standing beside us—and our ordinary moments will become occasions of resurrection joy. |
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