Read Luke 24:50-53

After Jesus left them, the first thing the disciples did was go to temple and preach the gospel. Right?

Wrong. The first thing they did was go to temple and praise God. They had lost Jesus’ physical presence, yet the record says they had great, continuing joy (v. 52).

Are we usually joyous when we see a dear friend leave on a trip from which we know he will not return? What made the difference here? Jesus withdrew from the sphere of the seen and physical. He did not withdraw from their lives. He left with them one last earthly miracle. It is His gift of joy beyond themselves, the peace that passes understanding.

Jesus’ post-resurrection appearances were like the rest of his life, meeting people where they are. After the resurrection we find him appearing to disciples at the empty tomb, hosting their breakfast on the beach (John 21:9-10), joining them behind closed doors, all places they normally would have been. Yet it was different. Sometimes they didn’t recognize Him.

Why? What had changed? He had risen from the dead. He had proved His power. Beyond all argument He was Messiah. The great Creator had become our Savior.

Are we part of that long chain of believers rejoicing in the temple, going out to report to others that Jesus is not far away? Is our Christianity centered on a Person to be loved and obeyed?