Strong spirits: it’s all about love
How many times do I encounter Jesus but don't realize it?
There is a great story in Luke's account of the resurrection (chapter 24) - probably my favorite resurrection story in all the gospels. It raises lots of questions. It is the story of the two disciples heading home to Emmaus, their hearts heavy, for Jesus has been crucified. Along the way, they encounter Jesus "but somehow they don't recognize him." First question: How many times do I encounter Jesus but don't realize it?
They walk along and explain to this "stranger" what has happened to Jesus, and how they had hoped he was the long awaited Messiah. Jesus challenges their lack of faith and understanding and recites many Old Testament scriptures which point out that what happened to him was well documented long before. The two still don't recognize who this is. Second question: How well do I know the Bible - Old Testament and New? Do I find Jesus in it when I read?
Finally, they get to their home and Jesus "acts like" he's going on, but they invite him to stay the night, or at least for a meal. He agrees. They set out the meal and ask him to give a blessing. He does, and then he breaks the bread, and immediately, they recognize it is Jesus- and he disappears from sight! (See why I love this story?) One says to the other, "Wasn't your heart on fire when he opened up the scriptures along the road?!" Third question: Do I allow the Holy Spirit to set my heart on fire when I open up the Bible?
Final question: Why are their eyes opened when Jesus breaks the bread? Because Jesus is the Bread of Life (John 6:48), and his broken body and poured out blood on the cross paid the price for our sins, and opened the way back to the God, and opened our eyes to see the Truth...Him!
Luke 24. Great story! I encourage you to read it for yourself... Once you encounter the living Jesus, you will never be the same!
