167. A Divine Visitation.

And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. - Luke 24:36.

FROM what a man has been it is usually safe to infer what he is.

This is eminently the case with our Lord Jesus, since he is unchangeable. What he was to his disciples in the days of his flesh, he will be to his followers at this present hour.

We gather that he loves to reveal himself to his saints when they are assembled on the Sabbath-day, for he did so when on earth.

Let us consider the visit described in the text.

Uninvited, unexpected, undeserved, but most welcome was that visit.

Jesus stood in the center to be near to them all, and that he might assume the place which a leader should take among his followers.

I. WHEN HE APPEARED.

1. When they had been acting unworthily by fleeing from him at his betrayal, and deserting him at his trial.

2. When they were unprepared, and unbelieving, doubting his express promise, and refusing the testimony of his messengers.

3. When they greatly needed his presence, for they were like sheep without a shepherd.

4. When they were exercising the little life they had by coming together in loving assembly. So far they were doing well, and acting in a way which was likely to bring blessing.

5. When they were lamenting his absence, and thus proving their desire after him. This is an admirable means of gaining his presence.

6. When certain among them were testifying concerning him.

Are not we in a similar condition?

May we not hopefully look for our Lord's manifestation of himself?.

II. WHAT HE SAID. "Peace be unto you."

1. It was a benediction: he wished them peace.

2. It was a declaration: they were at peace with God.

3. It was a fiat: he inspired them with peace.

4. It was an absolution: he blotted out all offenses which might have spoiled their peace.

The Lord by his Holy Spirit can calm our perturbed minds, relieve of all care, discharge from all sin, deliver from all spiritual conflict, and give to each one of us immediate and perfect peace.

III. WHAT CAME OF HIS APPEARING.

1. He banished their doubts. Even Thomas had to shake off his obstinate unbelief.

2. He revealed and sealed his love upon their hearts by showing them his hands and his feet.

3. He refreshed their memories. "These are the words which I spake unto you" (verse 44).

4. He opened their understandings (verse 45).

5. He showed them their position. "Ye are witnesses of these things" (verse 48).

6. He filled them with joy (John 22:20).

Has the Lord come into our midst during this service? Has he breathed into our souls a special peace?

If so, let us wait a while, and further enjoy his company, and praise his condescending love.

If we do not feel that we have been thus favored, let us tarry behind, and further seek his face.

A special meeting for praise and prayer will be held during the next half-hour. O Lord Jesus, abide with us!