Wednesday April 19, 2023

Today is Wednesday, April 19 and we are studying the Post-Resurrection appearances of Jesus.

I pause to center myself for this time of prayer. Slowly I breathe in and out, clearing my mind and welcoming the presence of Jesus Christ in my midst.

Pause and Pray

Blessed Lord Jesus, thank you for loving me and shedding your blood for the salvation of my soul. Open the scriptures to me and reveal the amazing wonder of your suffering, death and resurrection. Amen.

I rejoice in God’s loving presence and praise him with the words of Psalm 52.

But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God’s unfailing love for ever and ever. For what you have done I will always praise you in the presence of your faithful people. And I will hope in your name, for your name is good. Psalm 52:8-9

Pause and Pray

It is evening on Resurrection Sunday. As the sun sets, Cleopas and his friend unknowingly walk with the resurrected Jesus all the way to the village of Emmaus. In response to Jesus’ feigned ignorance of what just happened in Jerusalem, the men explain that the chief priests handed Jesus over to be sentenced to death, and he was crucified and buried. That was three days ago. Just that morning some women went to the tomb and did not find his body. They told Cleopas they encountered angels who said Jesus was alive. Some of their friends ran to the tomb and said it was empty, but they didn’t see Jesus either. As they continue their journey, Jesus responds to their report.

He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself. As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going farther. But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them. Luke 24:25-29

I imagine a serene evening walk in the countryside, the sun low in the sky, a quiet conversation and the presence of Jesus. Nearly two hours of uninterrupted time with the Savior. That must have been one of the most beautiful seven-mile treks of all time. In the men’s despair and uncertainty, Jesus comes near and walks with them, talks with them and opens the scriptures to them. Arriving at their destination, Jesus leaves them free to continue without him. His love is such that I also am free to leave him, turn my back on him, shut my mind against him, or close my heart to him. The two invite Jesus to stay with them and he accepts the invitation. Jesus stays.

Ask: When have I last asked Jesus to “stay” with me? Where does the darkness fall in my circumstances and the surrounding world?

Pause and Pray

Lord Jesus, forgive me when I fail to believe the powerful truths written in God’s word. Open the scriptures to me and help me understand the fulfillment of prophecy and the completion of God’s plan for redemption. Please do not journey on without me; I urge you to stay with me. Wherever I encounter darkness – disease or despair, insult or injury, betrayal or brokenness, loneliness or lethargy, hostility or hopelessness, please stay with me. I read the words from Luke again and listen for the message you have for me.

He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself. As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going farther. But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them. Luke 24:25-29

Ask: What image, word or phrase stands out to me when I slowly read this passage? What is God trying to say to me through these words of scripture?

Pause and Pray

I consider the emotions this passage evokes in me – sorrow or worry, joy or peace? I consider how the presence of Jesus on my journey shines light on my circumstances and guides my path into the future. Maybe God wants me to be more aware of Christ’s abiding presence in a particular relationship or situation. Perhaps Jesus is waiting for me to invite him into my places of struggle, challenge or concern. Maybe God wants to help me keep my heart open to Christ and invite him to stay. Urge and implore him to stay.

Pause and Pray

Lord Jesus, abide with me for darkness falls in this uncertain world. I invite you into my heart and life and urge you to remain with me always. I hear you knocking on the door of my soul. I hear your voice calling my name. I open the door and welcome you in. Come, Lord Jesus, and dine with me on the table of my heart. Amen.

Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me. Revelation 3:20

I leave this time of prayer to go with Jesus, who walks with me and talks with me and stays with me always.

Amen