Each post-Resurrection encounter is deeply human. The disciples weren’t superheroes. They were confused, scared, heartbroken—and yet, Jesus came to them. Not with judgment, but with mercy, hope, love, peace, clarity, and purpose.

Let’s look at where He met them:

• In the Upper Room, huddled together, locked away in fear
• On the Road to Emmaus, downcast and confused about what had just happened
• At the Sea of Tiberius, slipping back into old routines, unsure of what came next
• On the mountain, being sent out to “make disciples of all nations”

In each of these moments, Jesus met them right where they were—emotionally, spiritually, even physically. And then He called them forward.

In this week’s devotions, I want to reflect on what these encounters mean for us today. Life is a journey filled with joy and hardship, faith and doubt. There will be times when we feel like hiding, when our dreams fall apart, or when we’re tempted to go back to “life as usual.” But even then, Jesus shows up. He gently reminds us of who we are and calls us to keep going.

If you’ve wandered, He’s still walking toward you. If you’ve locked the door, He’s already standing on the other side, offering peace. That’s who He is—the Shepherd who never stops seeking the one who strays.

This week, wherever you are on your journey, let Him meet you there.

Cecilia Carroll