For years in my Bible reading, my understanding of Scripture was all too heady and lacked a real, living intimacy with my Lord Jesus. The “I AM” statements found in John’s gospel touched my heart one day. I knew that Jesus rose from the dead and ascended up to the right hand of the Father; however, I had this blockage in my mind. I knew theologically that Jesus was dwelling in me, but for all intents and practical purposes He was still “way up there.” Blessed awakening takes place when we realize that Jesus is indeed in our midst, even though He physically is at the right hand of the Father. Thomas was taught this lesson. We too must learn this fact.
As we journey through Mark’s gospel together, keep this truth in your heart. We are not studying simple history about what Messiah Jesus did, but we are studying about the things that our precious Lord still does today. It’s not that Jesus used to heal people and exercise authority over demons; He still does! It’s not that Jesus used to have compassion on the lost multitudes; He still does! It’s not that Jesus used to receive sinners; He still does!
Saints, today – right now – right where you are as a child of God, is where the risen Savior is! He is here in the midst of this local church. He is in the midst of two or three that are gathered together. Meditate on this precious truth, that His presence is inescapable. We serve in His presence; we worship in His presence; we talk in His presence; we watch television in His presence! He is the ever-present Jehovah Shammah, or the LORD who is there. Where? There – right with you! The God of truth, the God of mercy, the Holy God is forever with us.
Sin caused Adam and Eve to hide from the presence of the Lord God. But because of God’s wonderful sacrifice for sin, Jesus Christ, the debt of sin is removed and the door of fellowship is forever opened. The presence of Jesus brings such joy, such inspiration for worship and thankful living!
Oh Bride of Christ, learn to dwell in your Lord’s presence. His presence always destroys pride, promotes holiness, evicts fear. Our Lord is risen! He is alive forevermore! In His presence we are strong, holy, and forever secure.
