May 2000

JESUS’ PRESENCE
(Luke 24
)

Years ago, a TV station was called and told about a man who was planning to set himself on fire. The station sent out a crew. The crew had to decide whether they would let the man set fire to himself or stop him. They let him set himself on fire as they filmed the event. Moments later however, they relented and help put the fire out. The man’s life was spared, but why the delay? Unfortunately, we live in a world of apathy and unconcern. Many times, people just don’t want to get involved. How sad.

Following the Lord’s resurrection, He showed Himself to many as proof of His resurrection. But in this chapter there is far more than just historical proof, even as important as that is. Jesus revealed to these two disciples, His willingness and His capability in dealing with difficulty and confusion.

JESUS DREW NEAR THEM (15)
Jesus himself drew near

These two on the road to Emmaus were confused. They couldn’t understand the events surrounding the death of Jesus and an empty tomb. It was during this confusion that Jesus drew near but they did not recognize Him. Perhaps you are going through some difficult situation. Is there something you can’t understand concerning what God is allowing to happen to you? Sometimes confusion results from sickness, or death of a loved one. Pain and suffering often lead to confusion. Why me? Perhaps some financial difficulty or marital strife and you can’t see any solution or relief. Remember these disciples. It is during their time of confusion that Jesus came. He will do the same for us today.

JESUS WENT WITH THEM (15)
Jesus…went with them.

Jesus listened to their conversation and made certain that they clearly comprehended the reason for their confusion. You see, Jesus already knew what and why they were going through this situation. Have you talked to Jesus about a problem or concern you are facing today? When you do, tell Him plainly and clearly how you perceive your situation. He always has time to listen. He’s just a prayer away. The Lord says, “Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee” (Psa 50:15). Spend time with Him and let Him know you want His answer to your problem.

JESUS SPOKE TO THEM (24)
Then he said unto them

‘O foolish and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken’. These two are called foolish, not because of ignorance, but because they were looking at circumstances and events without thought of spiritual truth. Jesus the living Word, went to the written word to seek answers to their problem. Are you doing the same? What does the Bible say? How have others faced the same situation you’re in “There is no temptation taken you but such as is common to man, but God is faithful in that he will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able, but with the temptation provided a way of escape that ye may be able to bear it.” (1 Cor 10:13). God promises to see us through all our problems. Others have faced them and so can we with Jesus.

JESUS TARRIED WITH THEM (29)
Jesus went in to tarry with them.

Notice, he not only showed them the answer to their problem, but He continued with them to give comfort and encouragement. He fellowshipped with them, He broke bread with them. Jesus is there when you need Him. “I will never leave you nor forsake you”(Heb 13:5). No matter what you are facing today, Jesus is interested, He has the answer and He will see you through. Remember, there is nothing too hard for the Lord. Indeed it can be overwhelming to us, but Jesus is right there to help in our time of need.

These two couldn’t wait to get back to the other disciples to tell them what Jesus had done for them. He warmed their hearts, He encouraged their spirits, He put joy back into their life. Jesus wants to do the same for us. When we have trouble and difficulty just remember what He is willing to do. Jesus draws near, goes with us, speaks to us and tarries with us to see us through. Praise God for His love and concern. Do you know Jesus personally? If so rejoice, but if not here’s how you can. Admit your need, “All have sinned and come short of the glory of God”. Believe in His finished work for your salvation, “He who knew no sin, made sin for you, that you might be made the righteousness of God in Him”. Commit yourself to Him. Pray this prayer, Lord Jesus, I am a sinner, I need you as my Savior, I turn my life over to you. Thank you for your gift of salvation. Remember His promise, “Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord, shall be saved” (Rom 10:13). God bless.