Jesus Christ lived over 2000 years ago, so it’s not possible to physically touch him anymore. However, there are still ways we can connect with and experience the presence of Jesus in our lives today.
Experiencing Jesus Through Prayer
One of the most direct ways to connect with Jesus is through prayer. When we pray, we can speak to Jesus as a friend and feel his presence with us. We may not be able to touch him physically, but we can feel him touching our hearts and minds when we sincerely seek him in prayer. Some tips for experiencing Jesus through prayer:
- Find a quiet place to pray where you can focus.
- Speak to Jesus respectfully but casually, as you would a close friend.
- Tell Jesus how you’re feeling and what’s on your mind.
- Listen during prayer for any thoughts or encouragement Jesus may place in your mind.
- Have an attitude of trust, believing Jesus hears you and will respond in some way.
As we pray to Jesus consistently, we’ll grow closer to him and get better at recognizing his subtle presence in our lives.
Reading and Applying Jesus’ Teachings
While Jesus isn’t on earth physically, he did leave his words and teachings in the Bible. When we read Jesus’ words and do our best to apply them, it allows us to spiritually touch him and grow closer to him. Some tips for experiencing Jesus through his teachings:
- Set aside regular time to read the Gospels – Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.
- As you read, imagine Jesus himself teaching the words.
- Think carefully about how Jesus’ teachings apply to your life.
- Choose one teaching to focus on each day or week and work on applying it.
- Ask God to help you live by Jesus’ teachings through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Applying Jesus’ wisdom will allow him to touch our hearts and minds. His teachings have a living power that can profoundly shape us when we put them into practice.
Serving Others in Jesus’ Name
Jesus told his disciples that when they served any person in need, it was just like serving Jesus himself (Matthew 25:31-46). When we reach out to help, encourage, and bless others, especially those in need, we create an opportunity to spiritually touch Jesus. Ways we can serve others and experience Jesus’ presence:
- Volunteer at a homeless shelter or soup kitchen.
- Visit sick or elderly people who may be lonely.
- Donate to ministries that help the poor and spread the gospel.
- Join a mission trip to help those in poverty.
- Help a overwhelmed mom by babysitting her kids for free.
- Visit prisoners to provide friendship and encouragement.
As we step out in compassion to serve, we can trust that Jesus will be present working through us. He considers any act of service towards the needy as service done directly to him.
Experiencing Jesus in Christian Community
Though our faith is personal, God also designed us to experience him in community with other believers. When Christians gather in Jesus’ name – whether for worship, prayer, study, or service – we can expect Christ to be present and at work among us. Ways to experience Jesus in Christian community:
- Attend worship services with reverence and openness to God.
- Join a small group Bible study or prayer meeting.
- Find a Christian mentor or accountability partner.
- Serve alongside other Christians in ministry.
- Share fellowship over meals with other believers.
- Unite with other Christians to help the needy in your area.
As we fellowship with other followers of Jesus, we’ll recognize his presence in our interactions and see his fingerprints on our community. We get a taste of his kingdom.
Sensing Jesus’ Presence Through the Spirit
Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to believers so that we would never be alone. The Spirit’s presence in our lives is like having Jesus right with us again. As we grow sensitive to the quiet voice of the Spirit, we can experience Jesus guiding, convicting, comforting, and empowering us daily. Ways to recognize Jesus through the Spirit:
- When you sense the Spirit convicting you of sin, listen and follow his leading.
- When you’re unsure what decision to make, ask the Spirit for wisdom and listen to his thoughts in your mind.
- When you feel anxious or afraid, ask the Spirit to fill you with Christ’s peace.
- When you need strength, ask the Spirit to empower you with courage and confidence.
- When you feel weak, rely on the Spirit’s strength to help you through.
As we walk in step with the Holy Spirit each day, the Spirit makes Jesus’ presence tangible even today. He is the Spirit of Christ within us.
Conclusion
Though Jesus ascended into heaven, he can still be experienced and known today. Through practices like prayer, studying Jesus’ teachings, serving others, Christian community, and relying on the Holy Spirit, we can spiritually connect with and touch the living Jesus. His presence can become just as real to us as if we knew him on earth physically. While we wait for the day we’ll see him face to face, we can still walk closely with him now if we seek him wholeheartedly.