“Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies.” John 11:25
In the moments of our deepest struggles, it is often easy to lose sight of hope. Yet, just as Mary Magdalene encountered the Risen Christ in the garden, we too can experience such moments that change our lives forever. As John 20:14-16 illustrates, Mary didn’t recognize Jesus at first, but when He called her name, everything changed. This personal encounter with Christ ignited a flame of faith within her, reminding us that God knows us intimately and calls us out of darkness into His marvelous light.
Brethren, I encourage you to ‘Rise Up, Meet the Savior’ to confront your doubts and fears. Just as Mary was transformed from sorrow to joy upon recognizing Jesus, we too can experience a shift in our hearts when we open ourselves to His presence (see John 11:25). In our own lives, whether through a quiet moment of prayer or an unexpected answer during a time of need, these encounters serve as reminders that God is always near, ready to guide us through our struggles.
John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
The word of God assures us in Psalm 34:18 that “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” This promise echoes throughout our lives, especially during times when we feel lost or abandoned. Each encounter with the Risen Christ offers an opportunity to turn our fears into faith. When we surrender our worries to Him, we discover a wellspring of peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7).
Reflecting on my personal journey, there have been moments when I felt overwhelmed by doubt. Yet, in those times, I have felt an undeniable nudge from the Holy Spirit reminding me that I am not alone. Whether it was through a comforting word from a friend or a powerful message at church, I realized that Christ was walking alongside me, transforming my despair into a dance of joy. These experiences reaffirm that God is ever-present, ready to meet us in our moments of need. Acts 4:12 says, “Salvation exists in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.”
Prayer for the Day!
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Son and the countless ways You reveal Yourself to us. Help us to recognize Your presence in our lives and to embrace each encounter with faith and gratitude. May we rise up and meet the Savior in our daily struggles, allowing Your love to transform our hearts and minds. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
