Roller Coaster of Hope

Kay HornerBlog, Uncategorized

He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?” They stood still, their faces downcast. One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you only a visitor to Jerusalem and do not know the things that have happened there in these days?” –Luke 24:17-18

Interesting observations:
We don’t hear about the two disciples from Emmaus before this passage of Scripture, nor do we hear about them after. Perhaps their anonymity portrays how imperative it is that the good news of the Gospel be made known to ALL! The revelation of Christ wasn’t just for the inner circle of disciples. The Emmaus story is a critical reminder that this Good News is for all humanity.

Jesus seemed to display a very interesting human quality of humor as He replied to the men’s question: “Are You the only one visiting Jerusalem and unaware of the things which have happened here in these days?” Christ simply replied, “What things?” It’s humorous to think about this interaction. He, of all people, would have known about recent events. Jesus seemed intentional about wanting the disciples to talk more about their roller coaster of experiences. Perhaps He wanted the chance to hear, care, and respond?

As we explore our own “roller coaster of hope” experiences, we, too, can move from the disciples’ state of “standing still looking sad” (Luke 24:17) to a bold expression of contagious hope. The same Emmaus disciples were later able to proclaim their hope: “The Lord has really risen” (Luke 24:34).

Reflecting on the Easter season with its hopeful truth, we must ask ourselves, “How will we continue to live a life filled with hope even beyond this season?” Insights from the Emmaus Road disciples can strengthen and empower our hope. As the Holy Spirit reveals Christ and illuminates His Word, we can stand steady through the ups and downs of life events.

Experiencing Scripture:
“As many as may be the promises of God in Him [Jesus] they are yes” (2 Corinthians 1:20).

Pause and ask God to reveal Jesus to you from His Word, as surely as He did with the Emmaus Road disciples.

“God, I want to see and encounter Jesus in your Word which is ‘alive and active’ (Hebrews 4:14). Thanks for hearing and answering” (John 15:7)

Blog taken from the Preach2Engage sermon entitled “Contagious Hope”