EARNESTLY SEEK THE LORD

Earnestly Seek Him - Jennifer Woodley

'Then the disciples went back to their homes, but Mary stood outside the tomb crying.' John 20: 10-11 (NIV)

Peter entered the tomb first and his companion John followed. They spied the linen wrappings lying disbanded on the ground, wondering, confused as to what this meant. Still they did not understand the Scriptures that said Jesus must rise from the dead. Without staying, without lingering to find answers, they left and returned to their homes.

Shortly afterwards, Mary stood weeping outside the tomb. She was distraught, overcome with emotion, overcome with anguish. Where had Jesus gone? Who had stolen his body? She bent down peering into the tomb, searching hard for answers to her growing questions.

The disciples left the scene still wondering about the events that just transpired, but Mary in her grief chose to stay, to persist until answers were found. Do we retreat when circumstances don't make sense or become too overwhelming to bear? Mary's story is an invitation to develop a posture of seeking and searching. An invitation to press into the Father's presence, waiting with Him for answers. We can rest assured that despite our inner turmoil and difficult circumstances, God will faithfully make Himself known, bringing the help and comfort we seek. For 'you will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.' Jeremiah 29:13 (NIV)

'Lord help us to be patient to wait. To persist in waiting with you, for the answers to our questions. Thank you for loving us deeply. Thank you that just as you provided for Mary, you also promise to be our comfort, our help in times of trouble and distress. Amen'