“So, this is how it will be”, says Jesus. Life will be carrying on around us as usual, day after day.
Life was going on as usual for the disciples. At their fishing boats and nets next to the sea of Galilee; at the tax collector’s booth, resting under a tree; wherever, when they heard Jesus’ call to follow him. They responded and
followed, listening to his teaching, witnessing his healing miracles, and observing his amazing, unwavering, forgiving and compassionate nature. They shared life with him and he with them, all the way. Through the ups and downs. Through the busy, dusty streets. The confrontations, the sorrows, and the celebrations. They hailed him on the donkey, shared a last supper and had their feet washed, attempted to pray with him one last time, ran away when things got really rough, but nevertheless
witnessed his resurrection and ascension. Life as usual, but not normal or typical.
I wonder where Jesus meets you today in your ‘life as usual’ – your ‘normal’ life?
Throughout your normal, ‘life as usual’ day, I wonder whether you will become more aware of his presence, as the disciples did on the way to Emmaus after the crucifixion. Will you listen as he
explains the Scriptures? Will you recognise him in the breaking of the bread? Will you respond to his invitation to follow, and be filled and energised to witness to his reality?
If you know the beautiful hymn “Forth in thy name, O Lord, I go” by Charles Wesley, 1707-1788, you may want to reflect on those words today.
