Recognizing the Risen Lord in Our Lives

Recognizing the Risen Lord in Our Lives

In the narratives of the Lord's encounters, a common thread emerges: those who meet the risen Lord often fail to recognize Him initially. Take the two disciples on their somber journey back to Emmaus after that first Easter Sunday. Jesus joins them, yet they perceive Him as a stranger unaware of the recent traumatic events in Jerusalem. However, they recognize Him when they break bread together. Similarly, Mary recognizes Him only after He calls out her name.

This theme teaches us a profound lesson: the depth of our personal relationship with the Lord directly influences our ability to recognize Him in the midst of life’s trials. As we nurture this connection, we become more attuned to His presence and guidance in our daily lives.

When life throws fears, failures, worries, and disappointments our way (as it inevitably does), our intimate relationship with the risen Lord provides consolation. It reassures us that despite the challenges, it is well with our soul. Through the highs and lows, our soul finds its anchor in Him.

Let’s dedicate some time this week to building and strengthening our relationship with the Lord. The more we do, the more readily we’ll recognize Him walking alongside us, sharing the wonderful parts of our lives as well as the difficult ones.

Trust that, indeed, it is well with our souls.

By Fr. Mike French, SJ