Staying Connected

Staying Connected
Pastor Calvin Cook
May 19, 2025
Scripture: Luke 24:36 – “While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, ‘Peace be with you.’”

After the resurrection, Jesus didn’t ascend immediately. He showed up—in locked rooms, on dusty roads, by quiet lakeshores—reminding His followers that even in their confusion, fear, or doubt, they weren’t alone. He was present. And that presence kept them connected—to Him, to each other, and to the call on their lives.

Jesus didn’t just rise; He returned. And in doing so, He offered us a pattern for staying connected: through peace, presence, and purpose. Jesus is here doing a new thing.

In Luke 24, we find the disciples huddled in fear. Everything they believed in had been shaken. Then Jesus appears—physically, tangibly—and speaks peace into their lives. He opens their minds to understand the Scriptures (v. 45) and reminds them they are witnesses to something the world desperately needs to hear.

Is this still speaking to us?

We live in a noise filled world, with demands, and endless to-do lists. It’s easy to drift—to feel disconnected from God, from others, even from ourselves. But the risen Jesus is still showing up, still whispering “Peace be with you,” still opening hearts to truth.

When we slow down, when we open His Word, when we gather with others—even just two or three—He meets us there.

Some questions to consider:

• Where has Jesus shown up for you recently, even if you didn’t recognize Him at first?
• Are you making space in your life to experience Him?
• Who helps keep you connected to Christ—and who needs you to do the same?

Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for not leaving us alone after the resurrection. Help me recognize Your presence in ordinary places. Keep me connected to You, to others, and to the purpose You’ve placed in my life. Let Your peace anchor me and Your presence guide me. Amen.