Central Truth

It doesn't matter where we are or how desperate the situation is, Jesus Himself will come and walk along with us.

Reflections

Today is my birthday and God gave me insight into the wonderful gift He is to me.  I have read this chapter dozens of times and have been caught up in the events of the resurrection:  grieving women and the empty tomb, the disciples' hopeful disbelief when Jesus appeared to them, and the glorious ascension.  But this time in the story of two disciples on the road to Emmaus, the words from verse 15 exploded in my heart and spirit—"Jesus Himself came up and walked along with them".

Heart-broken and confused, wondering what would happen after the death of the Master they were leaving Jerusalem and the other disciples.  They were just going—away from the tragedy—perhaps trying to forget.  They weren't searching for Jesus: He was dead and buried.   No prayer of "Lord, come and help me" was on their lips.  Yet, seeing their need, Jesus Himself came up and walked along with them!  He didn't send an angel, He came Himself!  And He will come and walk with you and me.  We can count on His faithfulness and love!

As this truth burned in my spirit, I was filled with gratitude for all the times Jesus Himself had walked along with me.  I remembered the comfort of the Holy Spirit and the words of Scripture that He used to dry my tears at the death of my sister and later my mother.  Then I remembered the times when I ran from the pain and confusion of broken dreams, not seeking Him, and yet Jesus through the Holy Spirit broke into my despair and turned my heart toward Him.  And my joy increased even more when I suddenly understood that Jesus would also be there for all the people I loved and for whom I prayed.  All those people physically far from me and my help would be comforted by Jesus. 

This will now be my "shortest" verse in the Bible:  "...Jesus Himself...".  It will help me remember that He always sends the best to me, to you and to all whom He loves—Himself!

Discussion Questions

1. Can you recall a time when you needed His comfort and knew He was there?  How did He come alongside of you?

2. Can you recall a time when He didn't seem to be there?  What might prevent us from experiencing His comfort?

3. When you think about the truth that God is with us always, how will you pray for others in need?