Don't Miss Your Hour of Visitation
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | November 17 2024 | John 20:24-29
KEY VERSE:
So the other disciples told him, 'We have seen the Lord.' John 20:25 (NIV)
MESSAGE:
Thomas’ absence from the disciples when Jesus first appeared left him in doubt, disconnected from the joy and faith that filled the others. In our key verse, the other disciples’ exclamation, “We have seen the Lord,” reflects a testimony of God’s visitation to them, a moment Thomas missed. Their words were both an invitation and a challenge for Thomas to believe and join their faith.
When Thomas eventually returned, his encounter with Jesus became a life-transforming moment. Yet, his experience reminds us that we, too, can miss the fullness of what God is doing when we are not present or attentive. The shared witness of the disciples highlights the power of being among God’s people, where His presence is often revealed. By prioritising moments of fellowship, prayer, and worship, we position ourselves to witness His hand at work and experience His visitation among God’s people.
The interaction between Thomas and the other disciples reveals the significance of heeding the testimonies of others as a pathway to recognising God’s visitation. The other disciples’ declaration, “We have seen the Lord,” was an invitation for Thomas to align his heart with the reality of Christ’s resurrection. Testimonies like these often serve as God’s way of preparing us for a deeper encounter. Ignoring or dismissing such accounts can cause us to overlook His movements in our lives. Stay spiritually attentive, for God’s visitations often come through the voices and lives of those around us.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Be spiritually and physically present where God is working. Be attentive in worship, expectant in prayer, and open in fellowship, so you don’t miss the moments where Jesus is revealing Himself to you. PRAYER:
Lord, please help me to recognise and embrace Your divine visitations in my life. May I remain present, alert, and open to Your presence, experiencing the fullness of Your peace and the assurance of Your promises. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: SEEN
The Greek word translated as “seen” is horaó, which means to perceive, discern, or experience something fully. It goes beyond mere physical sight, encompassing a deeper understanding or realization of what is observed.
In the context of John 20:25, “seen” reflects the disciples’ encounter with the risen Christ—a moment that transformed their fear into faith. This “seeing” was a recognition of Jesus’ divinity and resurrection power.
Horaó points to the importance of spiritual vision. Seeing Jesus is not limited to physical sight but involves an openness of heart and spirit. Like Thomas, we are called to move from doubt to faith by perceiving Christ’s presence in our lives through the testimonies of others.
Reflections: To truly "see" the Lord is to perceive His work in and around us. Are your eyes open to His presence today?
Comments