Christianity Oasis Forum

[Lani]

John 20:26-29

26 And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you.
27 Then saith he to Thomas, reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing.
28 And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.
29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.


Jesus said to [Thomas], “have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe. John 20:29




Walking in my garden this morning, I was amazed to see the moon high in the sky, shining brightly in broad daylight. When I ran for my telescope and looked through it, I saw in crisp detail our moon's craters, plains, and ridges.

It occurred to me then that seeing the moon in daytime is similar to being aware of God's presence. Just as we don't often see the moon in daytime, we don't always recognize God walking next to us. Some of those times when, like Thomas, we are finding it hard to believe in something – and Someone – we cannot see, God seems to send us a message. Perhaps this comes in the form of a helping hand from a stranger, or a friend remembering us with a letter or phone call. Or perhaps it is just a “still, small voice” (1Kings 19:12 KJV) speaking to us, encouraging and comforting us.

Our faith renewed, we are assured that God is with us – no matter what, no matter when. Buoyed by the times when we manage to witness and experience God's presence, we are better able to maintain our faith during difficult times. And our continuing faith in the unseen Lord can serve as a powerful witness to others.



Prayer: Dear God, having faith is hard during times when you seem distant. Show us your presence in the people around us and as you speak to us through your word. Amen.


Prayer Focus of Day: Astronomers and Astronauts


Thought for the Day: Evidence of our unseen God can be seen in every day's events.


Story shared by: T. Seymour (ME)
Source: Upper Room Daily Devotional: 8/18/11