Searching for Jesus November 7, 2015

Read Jeremiah 29:11-13

Jeremiah 29:13      You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

Matthew 7:7     "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.

Deuteronomy 4:29     But if from there you seek the LORD your God, you will find him if you seek him with all your heart and with all your soul.

1 Chronicles 22:19     Now devote your heart and soul to seeking the LORD your God. Begin to build the sanctuary of the LORD God, so that you may bring the ark of the covenant of the LORD and the sacred articles belonging to God into the temple that will be built for the Name of the LORD."

My friend Carole has produced an outdoor passion play every summer for 30 years. The entire play hinges on having the right person in the role of Jesus. Many volunteer actors have played that role over the years. Each one in his own way has highlighted attributes that point to the Savior’s gentleness, compassion, love, and authority.

With only volunteer actors, some might wonder how Carole consistently locates so many men who can play the key part. But I know that all through the year, everywhere she goes her eyes are open for the person whose actions show he could portray Jesus.

Carole’s persistence reminds me of God’s words recorded by Jeremiah. Today’s verse encourages us to search for God wholeheartedly. We shouldn’t restrict our pursuit of God to a few hours on Sunday or a few fleeting minutes in daily prayer but all through our day, everywhere we are. Just as my friend constantly searches for her portrayer of Jesus, we should constantly seek God. And when we search with all our heart, we will find God.