The other day my husband and I had lunch with another couple who are our good friends. We met several years ago. We keep in touch mostly through emails. Every once in a while I see or hear something that reminds me of them. I am very grateful for our friendship.
When we and our friends get together in person, however, it's a whole different experience. We have the joy of seeing one another. We share what is happening in our lives and with our families. We may make plans about getting together again. We come to know one another in a deeper way. Our friendship grows.
I was reminded of this when I read a quote from Pope Francis: "I invite all Christians, everywhere, at this very moment, to a renewed personal encounter with Jesus."
Christians are those who have met Jesus. We know Him. We are his followers, His friends. We may think of Him often and even do good works that are pleasing to Him, but that is different from a personal encounter. Just like I think about my friends and occasionally connect with them at a distance, this is not the same as sitting down with them at the same table, in their presence, and enjoying one another's company face-to-face.
To encounter Jesus, I need to go where I can find Him, whether it is in a church, out in the beauty of nature, or in a quiet corner of my room. I put other activities and distractions aside to meet Him one-on-One.
Here I am, Lord. Thank you for being present here and now. Here's what's been happening in my life... What is it You would like me to know? What can we do together? Where else would You like us to meet? ...