As we continue looking at the Resurrection Appearances as part of our Current Sermon Series, may the following words be of encouragement to you as we remain wondering what our futures hold for us.
According to Luke 24:13-16 a couple of disciples were travelling on the road to Emmaus a few days after the crucifixion. They were deep in conversation, going over all the things that had happened leading up to and after Jesus’ cruel death on a cross.
“In the middle of their talk and questions, Jesus came up and walked along with them. But they were not able to recognize who he was.”
Luke 24:13-16 (The Message)
No doubt they were worried about what the future held for them – they had put all their hope in Jesus and followed Him, giving up their previous way of life for a promised new way of life. But now He was gone! He had died and was buried in a tomb – their hopes were dashed.
However, reports were coming in that Jesus’ body was no longer in the tomb. How could this be? Where was the body now? Who had taken Him?
They would more than likely relate to the words of Brother Roger of Taize who wrote:
If you were not risen, Lord Christ, to whom would we go to discover a radiance of the face of God?
If you were not risen, we would not be together seeking your communion. We would not find in your presence forgiveness, wellspring of a new beginning.
If you were not risen, where would we draw the energy for following you right to the end of our existence, for choosing you again and anew?
After the disciples had recounted what had happened over the preceding days, Jesus opened the Scriptures to them – “The disciples said to each other, “When he talked to us on the road, it felt like a fire burning in us. How exciting it was when he explained to us the true meaning of the Scriptures!”” Luke 24:32 (Easy to Read Version)
Throughout these days of isolation, may I encourage you to read the gospel of The Good News for yourself. And as you do – maybe Jesus will come alongside you and reveal the true meaning of The Word to you. Maybe Jesus will instil in you the excitement and abundant life that can only be found in Him.
For we have nothing to fear in these days for Christ has won the victory, and has risen from the dead!
The life and times of Perry... 