Devotion: Perseverance
Please take the time to read Luke 24:13-24 and Proverbs 4:25-27
It’s a dark and solemn day. Imagine how downtrodden Jesus’s followers are after his death and resurrection. He was to be their savior and save them from oppression. Now all hope is lost.
When they last saw Jesus he was dead…gone. They thought he was never coming back. They’d heard rumors that Jesus was alive from several women but doubted it was true. On their way to Emmaus from Jerusalem after the Passover feast, they encounter a stranger who asks to walk along with them. They do not recognize that it is Jesus. They share their story that Jesus is dead and they are despaired of any hope.
He admonishes them for having so little faith in the prophets that predicted the Messiah would have to suffer all these things before entering his time of glory. They beg him to stay the night. As he broke the bread, blessed it, and gave it to them, their eyes were opened and they recognized him. And at that moment he disappeared. Within the hour, they are on their way back to Jerusalem to spread the good news that “the Lord has really risen!”
Our current sermon series is titled “What Will Rise?” We are a resurrection people and the resurrection gives us the power to be our best. What rises in us? How can the best of me rise?
Pastor Greg emphasized the power of perseverance in his sermon last Sunday. Just as Christ suffered, we as Christians will also suffer. Sometimes when we struggle through the dark times, it is hard for us to feel God’s presence. The men on the road to Emmaus did not feel God’s presence in their grief.
What will rise? In the weeks to come, we can intentionally develop the trait of perseverance within us and many other God-like qualities which we will want to aspire to. God wants us to be the best version of ourselves. What is rising in you?
Persistent and loving God,
Open my eyes to see and ears to hear that you are near me. Guide me to practice perseverance when life challenges me. Guide my footsteps to seek your presence as I walk through life. 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.