Today's Readings: New Testament -
Luke 24:13-27
1 Corinthians 14:26-40
Old Testament -
Psalms 91
Judges 20-21
Click on Text Links to Read Online
Focus Verses: Luke 24:20-24
20 The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; 21 but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. 22 In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning 23 but didn't find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. 24 Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see.
Insight:
The two Christ-followers on the road to Emmaus were downhearted and confused. They had placed their hope in Jesus, believing him to be the promised Messiah. These hopes were dashed when they saw him crucified and buried. When they heard the news that his body was no longer in the tomb, the possibility of resurrection does not seem to have entered their minds.
It's possible to be confused and disheartened, even if you're following and believing the right person. Faith might be well-placed, yet lack the depth and understanding that comes through difficult questions and tough experiences. Faith is something that must be refined and adjusted as it matures.
Response & Action:
When I am confused or disheartened, I will look to God for the insight I need to work through the problem at hand. Instead turning away from God and the Scriptures, I will lean into God and his word even more. Working through despair and questions will help me to mature in my faith. The truth that comes from God is deeper than my confusion and stronger than my weakness. Wrestling with deep questions will lead me to deeper understanding and deeper roots.
O God, I trust that, as you have promised, if I seek you, I will find you. I trust that honest doubts can lead me to greater faith. I trust that, with your help, struggling through confusing problems can lead me to deeper understanding. I trust that by turning to you in times when hope is waning, I will find a confidence in you that cannot be shaken. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.
Spiritual Formation Verses: Proverbs 3:5-6
5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
Resources:
Six Dangerous Questions to Transform Your View of the World
by Paul Borthwick
