John 7:34

“In fact,” Jesus adds, “you will attempt to locate me after I am gone, but you will not be able to find me—you can’t even go where I am.” John 7:34 EFP 

This somewhat cryptic statement is an apparent reference to his ascension. Jesus is looking beyond his tenure on this orb, when his mission is completed. The time will come soon enough when these very religious leaders will do everything possible, first of all to prevent his “disappearance” from the grave, and then after failing to locate him after his resurrection, to mount a major cover-up of the events transpired that Sunday morning in Jerusalem.

The irony is that these very individuals have the opportunity that many a believer across the centuries would have wanted to experience—to listen and speak to the Messiah, the Savior of the world. They have the Desire of all the Ages in their sights for over three years, but they fail to seize the opportunity to learn and grow. To a certain degree this is no different then what we do. I may not have face to face encounters with him, but certainly many people in those didn’t either. I have many more mental pictures, albeit in written form, than most every one of his contemporaries. Yet there is so much ignorance, even apathy, towards the Christ. And just as it was in those days in dusty Palestine, the days are numbered. I will not always have the opportunity to become acquainted with the Master.  In fact, the time will come when many will seek for truth and not find it though they seek it high and low (Amos 8:11, 12). I need to take advantage of every opportunity to know Jesus better…today.