Jesus appeared here
Now that I have eyes to see I think I am seeing Jesus more frequently in ordinary settings. However, a church gathering is not ordinary. If it is the Body of Christ as is claimed, a Jesus-sighting in a church service should not be unexpected. When Joyce and I arrived at College Mennonite Church on Sunday morning, we should have been forewarned that something unusual was about to happen. The pulpit had been removed and replaced by two empty chairs. Not that I don’t enjoy listening to sermons.
I was inspired by songs led by Rebecca and the piano played by Robina. You may see and hear the entire eventful morning by clicking here. If you wish you can scroll forward twenty- five minutes to the beginning of children’s circle, or scroll to the thirty-sixth minute of the service to begin the drama that is what I am calling the sighting of Jesus.
Jesus comes because he cares
The meanings of the parables of Jesus are often hidden, so we ponder a parable before we see the subtle points Jesus wanted to make by telling it. So it was with this drama. An introduction to it assured us that the point would likely be unexpectedly revealed in the weeks and months from now. We were urged to enjoy the story and be patient
The message of the morning focused not so much on the appearance of Jesus, but on what it is that hinders many christians, Mennonites specially, from recognizing him when he joins us on our journey.
The biblical text for the morning was about the two disciples on their way home to Emmaus. When Jesus joined them their eyes were “kept” from seeing him for who he was. What prevents us from knowing Jesus when he joins us in the distresses that oppress us?
Do you see Jesus?
Jesus is here when needed
Why do we not see?
