When the sun came up, Jesus was standing on the beach, but they didn’t recognize him.—John 21:4 (MSG)

As a beekeeper, I’m fascinated by bees. Each is a separate organism but is a member of the hive, which itself resembles an organism. The bees’ changing roles parallel human development: first as larva, fed by others; then workers, advancing through the ranks as housekeepers, caregivers, undertakers, builders, packers, fixers—even controlling the temperature in the hive. Some bees guard the hive, while others finally graduate to fieldwork, becoming scouts and foragers. 

These outdoor bees buzz close while I sit near the hives observing them. Individual bees fly within a few inches of my face, flitting from side to side, zigzagging downward in a plane four inches from my nose. It seemed like they were scouting me! 

I researched this and discovered they were doing just that. Scientists have discovered that bees see a pixelated image of the human face and recognize their beekeeper. 

Humans aren’t always astute as bees. Soon after Jesus rose from the dead, there were several times when His followers had trouble recognizing Him. Mary mistook Him for the gardener (John 20:15). Cleopas and his companion on the road to Emmaus didn’t know who He was immediately (Luke 24:28). The disciples didn’t quickly recognize Him from afar as they fished (John 21:4). 

Since I visit my bees unveiled, they see and know me. In the same way, Jesus is present to me. I can always know Him through His Word, listening for His whisper, by prayer, and spending time in His presence.  

Faith Step: Close your eyes and imagine Jesus with you face-to-face. Keep that image before you as you come to Him in prayer.