Be Present
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | November 16 2024 | John 20:24-29
KEY VERSE:
Now Thomas (also known as Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. John 20:24 (NIV)
MESSAGE:
Meeting with fellow believers is essential for our spiritual growth. Thomas, one of the Twelve, missed the first encounter with the risen Christ because he was absent. His experience teaches us the importance of staying connected with others in the fellowship of believers. In such gatherings—through prayer, worship, Bible study, or testimonies—we create space for God to work in transformative ways, offering strength, encouragement, and renewed trust in Him.
When Thomas returned to the fellowship of the disciples, Jesus met him in his doubt, revealing how God meets us in our uncertainties through the assembly of His people. Such gatherings often become the setting for God to strengthen our hearts, answer our questions, and draw us closer to Him. Even during uncertainty, staying connected positions us to encounter God’s presence in profound ways.
Jesus’ words to Thomas, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed,” emphasize the need for spiritual attentiveness. Spiritual attentiveness calls us to be aware of God’s work around us and within us. This mindset enables us to witness His miracles and grow in faith, even without tangible evidence. Choose to be physically, spiritually, and emotionally present so you don’t miss what God is doing in and through your life.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Let us strive to be present in our faith communities, ready to experience and share the transformative power of Christ’s resurrection in our lives. Don’t MISS CHURCH SERVICES less you miss out on what God is doing among His people. And endeavour to be where the brethren gather to worship and fellowship.
PRAYER:
Lord, I desire to share intimacy with You in worship and prayer. Help me to prioritize fellowship with my brethren when the call comes for it. May I be present to share in the good fellowship You prepare for us in such gatherings. For Your dear name’s sake. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: WITH
The word "with" in Greek is rendered as meta or sun in different contexts. In John 20:24, meta conveys a sense of physical presence and relational proximity. It signifies more than being in the same place—it implies shared purpose, unity, and interaction among individuals.
Thomas’ absence from being "with" the disciples highlights the relational aspect of fellowship. Being "with" others means actively participating in their lives, sharing burdens, and experiencing God’s presence together.
By stepping away from this "withness," Thomas momentarily missed the life-transforming encounter with the risen Christ. God often moves through the fellowship of believers, and being "with" others in fellowship positions us to receive His grace, clarity, and encouragement.
Reflections Being "with" the body of Christ is a call to active fellowship, where faith grows and hearts are renewed by His presence. Stay connected, for God moves powerfully in our togetherness.
Comments