He Still Shows Up

He Still Shows Up

The number 40 appears 146 times in the Bible. Major events in Scripture took place in increments of 40 including: Jesus fasted 40 days, Jonah and Nineveh, the years in the wilderness for the Israelites, Moses on the Mount, and the number of days between the resurrection and the ascension.

This number usually signifies testing/trials, probation, and provision to prosperity. The 40 days after Jesus’ resurrection were active days. We know he showed up to over 500 people during this time. John 21:25 states, “Jesus also did many other things. If they were all written down, I suppose the whole world could not contain the books that would be written.”

Prior to his resurrection Jesus was mocked, called a blasphemer, and told that His miracles were from the devil. He was physically beaten, mistreated, and spat on. The physical, mental, emotional abuse he endured was massive. When he returned he showed the world that He lived again and He was Lord. The proof of his resurrection was indisputable. History documents his appearances and the many lives that were impacted by His miraculous return.

Christ’s resurrection proved once and for all that sin had no power over Him. It proved that even death couldn’t separate us from His love (Romans 8:38-39). And it showed that when we place our trust in Him, asking Him for forgiveness of our sins and surrendering all that we are to all that He is, we can have hope. And not just any hope but hope that the one that loves us conquered death so that we could be with Him!

Jesus wanted to give the world something to believe in and to offer hope for all those who were disappointed by his death. He hasn’t stopped showing up to the hopeless, hurting, and to unbelievers. He is still finding ways to show up in front of people who need to see Him most. He shows up as we carry His message into the marketplace, homes, and around the world on a daily basis.

Reflect:   How will you help ensure that He shows up to those around you today?