I Am with You Always

Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. When they saw him, they worshipped him; but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.’ Matthew 28:16-20

My eldest daughter sent me a quote the other day. "Science confirms. You never truly walk alone, your mother's cells live on inside your brain and heart forever." When I received it from her, it made me ache for my mother something fierce. A truly loving woman, who cared for us so well, and so many other people and especially children. I got to wondering whether the disciples felt that kind of ache, an ache so deep and raw, we rarely face it. The trauma of the crucifixion imbedded in their minds. They were thrilled, fearful and a little in doubt. Jesus was with them on the mountain, saying he was going to be leaving and promising to be with them always. They would have preferred the physical Jesus present always, like I ache for my mother always. And we know, if the cells of our mothers live on within us, then the cellular material that is our Creator is present too.

Wondrous Creator, you mark us with your love

giving us signs and wonders to behold at night

and your presence with us throughout the ages.

We feel isolated and alone, mourning for the lost

wishing and aching for their presence once again

thinking you are too far away and very silent.

Lord, help us to feel your presence today

as we serve among those who are your face

and let us trust in your living presence in each of us. Amen.