As we approach what is traditionally called Holy Week, we should reflect on the events of Christ and his Passion. However, as future generations look back on the events happening now, what will they say about us?

We are blessed to view the Passion narrative with hope, knowing the “rest of the story” as Paul Harvey would say. However, the women and disciples who went to the tomb that first resurrection Sunday were overwhelmed by grief and despair. Hear the deep disappointment in the words of Christ’s followers on the road to Emmaus as they spoke concerning their crucified Lord. “But we had hoped that He was the one who was going to redeem Israel” (Luke 24:21).

Contrast the desperate pursuit of Mary Magdalene, who refused to be hopeless even after discovering an empty tomb. Instead of returning home in despair, she continued looking for Jesus through her tears. Notice how her gloom turned to joy when the Lord spoke one word—“Mary!” The teary eyes of a downcast face may not have recognized Him, but her ears knew the voice of her Shepherd, her Deliverer, her risen Savior! The delivered demoniac is now a daughter of the King, a joint heir with Jesus Christ. The darkness has dissipated. The Son has risen. She has to run and tell somebody!

What do you suppose future historians will record about our 2016 “road to Emmaus” perspectives or sideline conversations, individually and collectively as His Church? Would future generations read, “Christ’s followers in the twenty-first century were overwhelmed with grief and sorrow. They lost all hope of a Spirit-empowered revival to redeem America from moral darkness and destruction.”

If we are hungering and thirsting for a manifestation of His Spirit and power in our lives and nation, He will delight in communing with us and granting the desires of our hearts. If the level of our desperation determines the level of His manifestation, will we keep pursuing a Christ awakening even amid the darkness?

Thankfully God assures us that He not only inspires this spiritual hunger, but He responds by filling us with His Spirit and empowerment for awakening.

“For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose” (Philippians 2:13).