The Counseling Corner
By Rev. Judith T. Lester, B.Min. M.Th
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”
– 1 Peter 1:3
This Week’s Meditation: Our Living Hope Through the Resurrection of Jesus! Luke 24:13-32
On the evening of Jesus’ resurrection, two disciples were walking home on the road to Emmaus from the events of the weekend, (i.e. Passover and Crucifixion). Emmaus is located approximately seven miles from Jerusalem. One of the disciples is named Cleopas. While walking along, the two disciples were discussing what had happened. As they were discussing the events of the weekend, suddenly, the risen Jesus joined them on their journey but they did not recognize who Jesus was. Jesus asked why they were so sad and Jesus listened as the disciples shared their sorrow.
As the two disciples and Jesus arrive at the Village of Emmaus, they encouraged Jesus to remain with them. Jesus had warmed their hearts so much by not only His presence but by how Jesus explained the Scriptures to them that the disciples invited Jesus to stay the evening with them. As the group sat down for dinner, Jesus began to break bread, He blessed it and gave it to them. When Jesus broke the bread perhaps their eyes were engrossed on the Savior’s nail pierced hands and they suddenly realized that this was Jesus Christ of Nazareth and that He had risen from the dead! Their Savior was no longer dead but He was with them! Immediately the eyes of the men opened and they recognized they were dining with their Messiah! Jesus then, vanished from their sight.
Even though Jesus is not physically on earth today, Jesus’ Spirit is still with us, as Christians all over the world are able to fellowship with Him and He with us! After the startling revelation, the disciples began discussing the events that had occurred. Jesus’ method of teaching, “opening the scriptures,” was so powerful that it caused the disciples’ hearts to “burn” within them. Excited about this encounter with Jesus, these men hastily returned to Jerusalem with the Good News and began reporting to the eleven disciples what had happened to them on their way home earlier. The Good News these disciples shared was: “It is true! The Lord has risen!” (Luke 24:34.)
Beloved, Christ is the living hope for the world today! Just as these disciples were blessed by Jesus’ presence, we too can find our lives blessed through our relationship with the risen Lord.
This Week’s Reflection: As you reflect on this meditation know that Jesus is with you. Even though you cannot see Jesus, doesn’t mean Jesus isn’t there with you. Thank God for God’s presence as you remember the words of the Hebrew writer who quotes God’s promise to Joshua, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5, cf. Joshua 1:5.) Then, pray for those whose eyes have not been opened to see that the Savior has come to offer Himself as a sacrifice for their sin.
Allow me to close our meditation journey with B. D. Ackley’s words to the well-known Easter hymn, “He Lives.” The words of this hymn speak poetically of the celebration of Jesus’ resurrection:
I serve a risen Savior, He’s in the world today
I know that He is living, whatever men may say.
I see His hand of mercy, I hear His voice of cheer,
And just the time I need Him, He’s always there.
He Lives, He Lives, Christ Jesus lives today!
He walks with me, and talks with me
Along life’s narrow way.
He lives, He lives, salvation to impart!
You ask me how I know He lives?
He Lives within my heart!
Next Month: National “Get Caught Reading” Month
General Disclaimer: The writer has used her best efforts in preparation of this information. No representations or warranties for its contents, either expressed or implied, are offered. Neither the publisher nor the writer shall be liable in any way for readers’ efforts to apply, rely or utilize the information or recommendations presented herein as they may not be suitable for you or necessarily appropriate for every situation to which they may refer. This information is for educational purposes only. If you would like to contact Rev. Lester, write to her c/o P.O. Box 121, Brookfield, WI. 53008.
