Where have you seen God?
In Matthew's Gospel, Jesus reminds us that “where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them. (18:20, CEB)
This does not just mean being together in the same physical space. When we are together virtually, on the phone or video chat or the other unique ways we are connecting right now, He is there, too.
That first Easter, many centuries ago, the disciples also found themselves isolated and afraid. They were filled with grief and confusion. They were wondering what was going on and what was coming next. They didn't feel like they had any of the answers, and they were trying to figure out a new normal.
We're not so different after all.
Many of us are isolated and afraid. There is much grief over not being able to gather together for worship and other church gatherings, especially this time of year, which is the holiest in the Christian calendar.
It's definitely not the same to be “attending” worship from our couches or dining room tables, watching on a screen, listening on the radio, or reading messages sent out by pastors.
Even though things are different right now, Jesus is still present in all of it. God is in the midst of the unusual worship gatherings, the online meetings, the long phone conversations with loved ones and the notes of support sent through the mail.
“When two or three are gathered in my name” does not just apply to physical gatherings; it applies to gatherings of the heart as well.
In difficult times like this, it can be easy to remain focused on the negatives — on all we are missing out on, and the plans that had to be set aside. Instead, let us try to focus on the positive and, especially this time of year, where we have seen Jesus present with us.
I see God in the sun that shines outside, the flowers beginning to bloom, the belly laughs of my son while we play. I feel God in the cards, email and texts I receive from others just to check in.
I witness God at work as leaders in our community work to figure out how to safely feed people who are hungry or support children and their education. We may not be gathered in body, but we sure are gathered in spirit, and Jesus is there.
Where have you seen him?
The Rev. Leigh Benish is pastor of Hill United Presbyterian Church, 501 Second St.
