Misplaced Faith – From the Edges

From the Edges Devotions – April 2, 2024

Misplaced Faith

Pastor Calvin Cook

Scripture focus –  Luke 24:36-40 ESV

36 As they were talking about these things, Jesus himself stood among them, and said to them, “Peace to you!” 37 But they were startled and frightened and thought they saw a spirit. 38 And he said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your hearts? 39 See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me, and see. For a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.” 40 And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet.

Last Thursday evening at our Maundy Thursday service, I realized when it was time for the message that I had misplaced my sermon. In an awkward way I looked through the papers that were on the lectern, on the front pew which becomes my holding area for everything that I will need for the service. The sinking feeling set in; the written notes were not there.  I knew that I had it in my hand and was trying to be extra careful not to lose it, knowing of its importance and that what was written would keep me centered.  So, I leaned into the Holy Spirit and said “OK take over.”

I confess, I do it often! I misplace stuff all the times, papers, keys, books, etc.….. Not intentionally of course but laying stuff down in haste, thinking it is a safe spot and then not remembering where the safe spot is. Usually, it re-appears, or I find it at the most unlikely moment, but still it is my fault and I confess to my carelessness and mindlessness.

This morning, I am thinking in these days following the celebration of Resurrection if our relationship with Jesus is misplaced. If we either set him aside, walk away, think a different way, or just plain out deny him until the moment we need Him again and go searching to find Him. All the while in the midst of everything Jesus is speaking loudly – “Here I am”  

In the after-Resurrection days of Jesus we see the followers and Disciples a mess. They are feeling that they have lost Jesus forever. In just a little bit of time they begin to replace Jesus and what he meant, replacing him with other things. Mostly they are overcome with their grief and loss of stability that they can’t see or believe that he is still present.

In our scripture focus this morning from Luke he offers a physical remembrance. Sadly, there was doubt and even a few excuses why this was not the same Jesus they had come to know, love and follow. Until Jesus says “Touch me, and see”

Today Jesus is still with us, maybe in the form of the helper, the Holy Spirit, that has been sent, but God is still with us. Interceding for us. Helping us to see what we are missing or have misplaced. Still today Jesus shows up and says “it might not be the same, because I call you to something, to not only find the missing Jesus in your life but for you to believe and trust!

May Peace be with you !