I once read a book containing all the questions Jesus asked in the Gospels. Three hundred and seven, if you’re interested. So anytime Jesus asks a question in the Gospels, I’m intrigued. I pause and consider it, as though He was asking it of me. Like in today’s Gospel:
"Why are you troubled? And why do questions arise in your hearts?” (Luke 24:38)
There is both tenderness and surety in these questions. He is compassionate toward His disciples, just as He is toward you and me. He desires to hear from them, to listen to their hearts and story, their grief and joy. And He desires to hear yours, too.
Imagine yourself in the room with the disciples. They argue and ask questions, some laugh despite themselves while others listen in wide-eyed disbelief. The room pulses with fear and confusion—and hope. Now, (ask the Holy Spirit to help you) imagine Jesus walks in. Let everything and everyone else melt away until it is only you and Him. Picture the look in His eyes, the tone of His voice as He asks you, Why are you troubled?
Tell Him.
All that concerns you, all that you fear, all that you’re holding onto.
He is listening with great attentiveness. He’s not waiting to get a word in. He has nowhere to be—there is nowhere else He would rather be.
When you finish speaking, He doesn’t scold or correct you. He doesn’t defend Himself or rush in with some generic platitude. Instead, like a masterful Physician pressing on a tender place, He asks another question. Why do questions arise in your heart?
Ask Him.
All the questions that have been keeping you up at night or spilling out over coffee with a friend. Every potential and possibility you’ve played out, the doubt that steadily chips away at your faith. Ask Him anything and everything.
Still He listens.
And when you’re spent from letting it all out, He leans in with such love it almost hurts.
Jesus is with you now. He’s been there all along. Listen to Him. Let Him speak kindness over you. He promises never to leave you. Look at the scars on His hands and feet. Proof that He has overcome it all. Every doubt, every fear, every sin—yes, even that situation that feels impossible—He has overcome it. And with Him, so will you.
He leans in with such love it almost hurts. // @thebethdavisClick to tweet
Take a breath. Set aside time in your day to go through these exercises.
Beth Davis is a lover of Jesus, a recently retired youth minister, and the Director of Ministry Advancement for Blessed is She. She is passionate about teaching women how to develop an intimate relationship with Jesus and speaking hope to weary hearts. Her favorite things include being an aunt to her five fantastic niece and nephews, the Saint Name Generator, and whatever book she's currently reading. You can find out more about her here.
Be a Woman of the Word
