He’s Right Here

The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

Psalm 34:18

One of my earliest memories is of a teacher at my church named Gus. I was four years old, but I still remember this big man with a big smile and a big hug. When I walked into his class, he engulfed me with his arms—a hug that went straight to my heart.

I’ve recently felt that hug again. My friends and church family have wrapped their arms around me, showing love and concern. I’ve described their actions as “the arms of Jesus.”

Our family has been through a rough start to the new year. Two of our daughters have experienced very difficult situations that no parent wants their children to face. During this time, the hugs, calls, notes, texts... have not stopped. Repeatedly, we have been told, “We are praying...” In our grief, knowing others are lifting our daughters to the Lord Jesus has been a great comfort and encouragement. The actions of fellow believers have made me acutely aware of the nearness of Jesus.

These believers have been the body of Christ to me. Jesus Christ is the Head of His church. We believers are His body, and through our faith and knowledge of Jesus, we build each other up in love. (Ephesians 4:12-16) Through these believers, I have been built up. My faith has been strengthened. I have experienced the arms and love of Jesus.

Have you experienced Jesus’ love and strengthening through His body of believers? Do you consistently gather with other believers for worship and fellowship so you can be encouraged? How are your words and actions encouraging others? God hasn’t designed His people to function independently. We are to remain interdependent upon one another, so that we build one another up in Jesus Christ.

Lord, thank you that I have felt and witnessed your presence and nearness through your body of believers. Use me to encourage others.

Jan Burkhart