Series: Devotion

I think a lot of us wonder that, especially if we belong to a church where everyone else seems to have their life going smoothly. Here we are, struggling with doubt or temptation or just overwhelmed with the trouble in our lives, and we wonder: Is God paying attention? Does He care that I’m struggling?

This is why Jesus holds our hearts. This is why we wait, patiently or impatiently. And with the help of the Holy Spirit, we will continue in this strange in-between relationship, until the day Jesus comes back visibly at last, and our joy is full.

It’s clear that Gamaliel does not believe in Jesus, at least not yet; but he has enough of an open mind to consider that maybe, just maybe, Jesus might actually be the Messiah sent from God. If so, Gamaliel doesn’t want to oppose Him.

The devil knows he has lost—he has known it ever since Jesus’ death and resurrection. But he’s still spreading lies. He is still trying to get us to doubt Jesus. He can’t win the war, but he can try to take down as many people with him as possible.

That first Easter morning, both Jesus and the angel give two simple commands to the women. They say, “Don’t be afraid.” And then they say, “Go and tell.”

Most of Jesus’ followers are missing from the cross—where are Peter and Andrew and Matthew and James? They are terrified and hiding somewhere in Jerusalem.

Jesus’ gift brings with it so many other wonderful things—forgiveness, life, a stronger faith. And yet, the thing I long for most of all in times of trouble is just this: Jesus’ own real presence, given to us through bread and wine, body and blood

Hands and feet pierced, bones out of joint—surrounded by enemies. He barely feels human. And He cries out to God so high above Him, seated in glory—will God help Him

He could not save Himself, because by His own choice He was making His lifeblood the ransom for our lives. And they were right, too, when they said, “He trusts in God; let God deliver Him now.” God did deliver Him, three days later when He raised Him from the dead