Devotion: Journeying
Please take the time to read Luke 24:13-34
Picture two of Jesus’ followers, sad and confused, on their way back home from Jerusalem to Emmaus (a trip of about seven miles). They are sad because their hope died on the cross and was buried in a tomb. Imagine their confused conversation after hearing reports that the tomb was found empty by the women visiting and the vision of angels telling them that he was alive. No one had seen him.
While they were conversing about these things, Jesus himself joined them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing him. First Jesus listened and then he asked them the simple question, “What’s all the fuss about?” Of course, Jesus knew what they were talking about but he still wanted to listen to them and hear their story. Standing still, and looking forlorn, they shared what was on their hearts.
They had lost hope. How often have we walked in the wrong direction and become preoccupied with our own dashed hopes and future plans? We often withdraw from the strength and fellowship of fellow believers.
Pastor Sarah shared in her sermon last Sunday Murphy’s law. “Whatever can go wrong, will go wrong.” Our journey through life is a slippery slope with its ups and downs but we can live with the assurance of God’s presence walking with us through this journey called “life”.
How does this part of the story speak to me about Christian life and ministry? As Easter people, we have hope in the resurrection because Jesus died for our sins that we might have eternal life. How can we recognize Jesus walking beside us in our lives? We hold on to Christ’s teachings, the faith shared with fellow believers, and God’s love shown by our brothers and sisters in Christ.
I’m filled with hope every time I walk through the doors of Sheridan Lutheran where I’m warmly greeted, love is shared in a welcoming hug or handshake, songs of praise sung, our faith professed, the word proclaimed, the sharing of Christ’s meal, and the prayers lifted up. My hope is strengthened by the community of fellow believers. Our mission statement says it all: “We are a community of Christ’s faithful followers who have been called by God to love deeply, grow spiritually and share abundantly.” We have hope!
Lord of Hope,
With grateful hearts, we thank you for walking beside us through life even when we don’t recognize your presence. Open our ears to hear and eyes to see that we have hope that you never let go of us. Guide us to share your love and provide hope to others who are struggling. Equip us to be a beacon of your hope in the world. Amen
Written by Janece Nelson
Janece and husband, Mike, have been members of Sheridan for more than twelve years. Janece is a retired mathematics instructor teaching at the middle school and college level. They are blessed with two children and three grandchildren.
Janece finds her greatest joy in spending time with her family and friends. Her passion is writing devotions for patients in hospitals and rehabs she sees every Monday as a Sheridan hospital visitor. As a Teammate she also mentors girls at Boys Town. Janece credits Faith Builders and Companions in Christ for her spiritual growth.