www.bible.com/reading-plans/31835/day/5

I have a problem that seems to have come along with aging. When I see a person who smiles at me and says, “Hi, Mrs. Watts” or “Hi, Vickie” I have been known to freeze, smile broadly and return the greeting but without a name attached. The honest truth is I recognize the face, but I genuinely have no idea who they are. Having taught for almost twenty years in VA and having between 140-170 students every year, I don’t expect myself to remember everyone, but it would be nice if I could come up with a gracious way to tell them I have no idea who they are.

If Jesus were to suddenly appear and greet me, I hope that I would recognize Him and be grateful for all He has done for me. But recognition comes with spending time with that person. If it has been days, months or years since you have spent time with someone, it is no wonder you don’t recognize them even though they may know who you are. (I figure the students had fewer teachers than I had students. That’s my excuse and I am sticking with it!) I know who Jesus is, that He is all-knowing, all wise, that He heals and shows the Father’s love wherever He goes. What I don’t know is if I would recognize Him, but I am hoping and praying that the time I spend in His Word and in prayer will lead me to instantly recognize the one I have been reading about and praying to all these years. I don’t think it will be His physical appearance that I will know, but I do think His Spirit will communicate with my Spirit, much like Elizabeth’s unborn baby knew the baby Jesus in Mary’s womb. You know, I cannot imagine what it will be like to be in the actual presence of the Lord for the first time. But I am excited about it and know that He will know me just as I am and love me just as He always has.