#JESUS2018 - Daily DevotionalsSample

## SEARCHING FOR GOD’S CLOSENESS It was not something extraordinary for Jesus to go to the Mount of Olives. It is there that he felt connected with his father and his calling. It was also a confirmation and a sign of Jesus’ true identity. “On that day his feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, east of Jerusalem.” (Zechariah 14:4a) Through all the nice, as well as challenging times we need a place in which we feel especially close to God and his calling, where we can withdraw and search God’s presence, again and again. If we learn to search God’s presence, encounter him and make sure to be in touch with his calling for us on our “Mount of Olives” in the good times, then it is easier for us to do the same in challenging times and to keep the focus despite distractions. Jesus asked his father to spare him from this suffering (verse 42). But instead God gave him new strength (verse 43). Maybe God does not give you what you desire, but he always gives you what you need. Just imagine how powerful it is when you search God’s presence and have an encounter with our creator who loves you and has a plan for you every day. ## ACTION STEP: Consciously take a moment to come close to God and his calling today. Your “Mount of Olives” might be your sofa, chair, garden chair, a bench on the way to work, a place with a nice view, etc. If you do not really know what God’s plan is for your life, then ask God to show you a bit more of his plan for you. ##### David Hofer, ICF Winterthur