Scripture:
[14] At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus.
Observation:
Mary Magnalene was following Jesus for a while and knew him well, yet in the state of mind she was in, when she turned to Him she didn’t recognize Him at first – by sight or by His voice. Not until He called her by her name did she then recognize Him.
Application:
No matter how well we know Jesus and how long we’ve walked with Him, there are times when we can be blinded by our sin, or by other things of this world, and not see Him even when he’s right in front of us. We may be blinded by things like pride, grief, fear, or other circumstance.. who knows? This is just a reminder that, regardless of our state of mind, we should always seek Him and His presence. We need to pay attention to ways in which He speaks to us – through His Word, through circumstances, through prayer or worship, through His Spirit, or however you hear from him.
Prayer:
Lord I know You’re always with me, even if for some reason I don’t feel Your presence as I should. Help me to overcome any barriers to knowing You are with me, and help me to always listen and know it’s You. In Jesus mighty name I pray, Amen.