live and in person
"The voice answered, 'I am Jesus, the One you are persecuting.' " —Acts 9:5
Jesus flattened Saul and blinded him. He questioned: "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me?" (Acts 9:4) Do you believe Jesus does similar things today? Do you believe Jesus is coming to someone right now, not through people or circumstances, but coming personally and directly?
Some Christians believe Jesus is risen, but don't believe He's present. Even if you believe Jesus is alive, if you don't believe He's here now for you personally, His resurrection has little practical significance for you. Jesus promised He would not only rise but also be with you (Mt 28:20). He is looking over your shoulder as you read these sentences. He is here not just through intermediaries but directly.
Possibly we haven't heard of many people who have directly met the risen Jesus. However, we may never have heard of Saul's meeting with Jesus except for Ananias' obedience (Acts 9:17). "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever" (Heb 13:8). He's risen and still appearing. He's dealing directly with many Sauls of this world, but only Ananiases know about it.
The risen Jesus says: "I Myself will pasture My sheep; I Myself will give them rest" (Ez 34:15). "The Lord Himself will fight for you; you have only to keep still" (Ex 14:14).
Prayer: Risen Jesus, may I not limit You by my lack of faith.
Promise: "For My flesh is real food and My blood real drink. The man who feeds on My flesh and drinks My blood remains in Me, and I in him." —Jn 6:55-56
Praise: Responding to God's personal call to him, William regularly shares the gospel with his in-laws.
Reference: (For a related teaching, order our tape on Developing a Deep Personal Relationship with Jesus on audio AV 52-1 or video V-52.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 16, 2006
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