"Brief Devotions For Busy Lives" by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson: Luke 24:13-17

 April 20

"That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. But their eyes were kept from recognizing him. And he said to them, "What is this conversation which you are holding with each other as you walk?" And they stood still, looking sad." - Luke 24:13-17 (RSV)

These sad followers of Jesus had been counting on Christ to rescue Israel from its enemies, yet he was now crucified and dead. Most Jews believed their prophecies pointed to a military/political Messiah. When Jesus died, they lost all hope and didn't understand his death offered the greatest hope ever. These two followers fleeing to Emmaus missed the meaning of history's greatest event because they focused on their disappointments and fear of persecution by the Romans. Consequently, they didn't recognize the resurrected Jesus even as he walked beside them. To magnify the problem, they walked in the wrong direction away from the fellowship of believers in Jerusalem. We too are likely to miss Jesus when we withdraw from worship with other believers if preoccupied with dashed hopes and problems. Only when we look for Jesus in our midst can we experience the power and help he offers.

These followers knew the tomb was empty but didn't understand Jesus had risen so they were filled with sadness. Despite witnesses to the resurrection, they still didn't believe. Today the Resurrection still catches us by surprise. In spite of centuries of evidence, many still find it hard to believe. What else does it take? For these followers it took the living Jesus in their midst. For many others, it will take the presence of Christians who are alive with the love of a resurrected Christ that they are willing to share every day.

Prayer: Jesus, Help me to see your presence clearly today as I walk along life's road filled with your love. Amen.

Meditation For The Day: Sadness turns to Gladness in Christ.

Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Spring Renewal Paperback – February 21, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)