04/23/2026
“That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, 14 and they were talking with each other about all these things that had happened. 15 While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. 16 But their eyes were kept from recognizing him.17 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.” Luke 24:13-17
On Sunday mornings I have been focusing on all the events that took place during the forty days after the resurrection and before the ascension. There were ten appearances of the risen Christ over the forty days. In two instances, what is recorded is the reaction on the part of some disciples who in depression returned to their life before Jesus called them. One was Peter and some other fisherman, who returned to fishing. (John 21:1-19) The second example was Cleopas and his friend, who left Jerusalem headed to Emmaus seven miles away on Easter Sunday afternoon. This reaction was in spite of the news that Jesus had risen. Both were headed in the wrong direction like many who end up lost in the familiar. That is the easy place to go when feelings take charge. Not realizing it, they were about to be as lost as the Israelites would have been if they had returned to Egypt like they were so tempted to do in their tough times. God calls us out of the past into a journey into a future of faithful following advancing in, and not retreating from His purpose.
In these passages Jesus makes house calls and proves it by meeting them in their retreat. He was calling and reminding them and us of His grace that is still available if we will embrace it in faith and continue following Him. Respond to His call.
Love,
Pastor Bob Barnett
www.seekerschapel.org
www.seekerschapel.org/watch/
