“Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Matthew 28:20

Here is a promise for the ages: “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Though Jesus left this earth physically, he remains with us through the Holy Spirit. Thus we have the opportunity to know Jesus intimately, to live in consistent fellowship with him. Through the Spirit, Jesus guides us, teaches us, and empowers us for the work of the kingdom of God.

The presence of Jesus also reassures us when we face challenges. It comforts us in our grief and strengthens us when we feel weak. The knowledge that Jesus is with us helps us to live faithfully for him, even and especially when our own resources fail. The presence of Jesus in our lives enables us to say with the Apostle Paul: “For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength” (Phil. 4:13).

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION: What difference does it make that Jesus is with you? If you really believed that Jesus was with you today, what might you do differently? What challenge would you take on that you’re inclined to avoid without the presence of Jesus?

PRAYER: Gracious Lord, how I thank you for being with me. Your presence, communicated through the Spirit, means more to me than just about anything in life.

Thank you, Lord, for those special times when your presence is almost physical, when I can sense your being with me beyond a shadow of doubt. How much I enjoy such fellowship with you!

Help me, Lord, in times when you feel distant. May I trust your promise to be with me no matter whether I sense your presence or not.

Give me boldness, Lord, to live today—and each day—with the confidence that you are with me: guiding me, empowering me, using me for your purposes. Amen.