Numbers 1:1-54; Psalms 144:1-145:21; Mark 11:27-12:17
To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days. Acts 1:3
This forty-day experience was like many others in Scripture, a challenge to His followers as to the depth of their commitment and to see how they would respond to an extended time of testing. For Mary, it was to comfort; for Thomas, it was to strengthen from doubt; for those on the road to Emmaus it was to teach; for Peter, to restore. Extended trials are difficult to go through, but properly responded to, they will yield fruit as we further commit ourselves to His care and keeping. —Mark Kolchin
Though I forget Him and wander away,
Still He doth love me whenever I stray;
Back to His dear loving arms would I flee,
When I remember that Jesus loves me. —Philip P. Bliss