February 4

and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age. — Matt 28:20 BSB

The living Christ is not just the person who was but the person who is—your living Lord. I once visited the field of Preston Pans near Edinburgh, where long ago, armies fought in battle. During the battle, the chieftain fell, and seeing him go down, his men hesitated, their courage faltering. Then the wounded leader summoned his strength, rose on his elbow, and cried out, “I am not dead, my children; I am watching to see my clansmen do their duty.”

In the same way, from beyond Calvary, Christ speaks to us. We cannot see Him, but He says, “Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the world.” He promises His continuous and uninterrupted presence, not "I will be," but I am with you always.

Soon the conflict shall be done,
Soon the battle shall be won;
Soon shall wave the victor's palm,
Soon shall sing the eternal Psalm;
Then our joyful song shall be,
I have overcome through Thee.