That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus ... Jesus Himself drew near and went with them. But their eyes were kept from recognizing Him. And He said to them, "What is this conversation that you are holding with each other as you walk?" And they stood still, looking sad. Then one of them, named Cleopas, answered Him, "Are You the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?" And He said to them, "What things?" And they said to Him, "Concerning Jesus of Nazareth ..." (Luke 24:13a, 15b-19a)
I love to see the joy of Jesus, on this, the day of His resurrection. With each new visit He sees the people He loves go from grief to overflowing joy, as they realize they have Him back against all hope. Now, with our salvation finally won, there is time for play—even a bit of teasing.
The two disciples walking to Emmaus come in for the worst of it. They have heard about the resurrection, but they do not believe it—though they can't stop talking about it! What a great time for Jesus Himself to walk up beside them, unrecognized, and start asking innocent questions. "What are you talking about?"
And Cleopas says the most embarrassing thing ever: "Are you the only one in all Jerusalem who hasn't heard the news?" To which Jesus says (as if He didn't know!) "What things?" I can just see Him shaking the sleeve of His robe a little further down, to hide the nail-holes!
Jesus' joy is one of His best gifts to us, and not something to miss. He died for our sins, yes—and He has risen for our eternal life, joy, and blessedness with Him forever. Thanks be to God!
THE PRAYER: Lord, thank You that You give us not just forgiveness, but love, joy, and life forever. Amen.
Reflection Questions:
* Do you tend to think more about your sins or about God's goodness and mercy?
* Why?
* How does Jesus' joy make a difference in your life?
Lenten Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.
Today's Bible Readings: Judges 11-12 Luke 14:25-35
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