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Easter Week Reflections – Emmaus

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That same day two of Jesus’ followers were walking to the village of Emmaus, seven miles from Jerusalem. As they walked along they were talking about everything that had happened.  As they talked and discussed these things, Jesus himself suddenly came and began walking with them. Luke 24:13-15

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This story involves two very ordinary disciples. They hadn’t been in the inner circle of Christ’s followers or been included for special events such as the transfiguration, the last supper or even the changing of water into wine. In fact, in some ways these two guys were just like us! They didn’t get why Jesus had to suffer and die. That day they had heard some odd news about His resurrection. This was just beyond their understanding. What was it all about?

Jesus knows when we’ve been talking about Him! I am sure you have heard someone say, “Remember God is listening!” but how often have we taken that literally? These men were exactly like that. Jesus was listening, but God kept them from recognizing Him. Sometimes Jesus showed Himself openly but this day He concealed His identity. The good news is that whether we are aware of Him or not, He knows right where we are! Jesus is eager and willing to walk along side of us and listen to our questions. Their conversation with Jesus which had started out with sorrow turned to hope. The news of Easter morning is that Jesus knows where we are, He has come to meet us on our own road to Emmaus!

Martha’s Heart

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There they made him a supper; and Martha served: but Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with him. John 12:2

Though we often admire Mary’s example we must not forget that Jesus also loved Martha. Martha was the bold one who publicly invited Jesus and all 12 disciples to her house for dinner! Just as Mary listened and learned from Jesus, Martha also learned in her own way. Though she worked in the kitchen, and complained about her sister, she also accepted correction. Later when Jesus failed to come and heal her brother Martha was waiting at the edge of town to ask Him why He had allowed Lazarus to die. But she was also equally quick to believe when Jesus told her that He was the resurrection and the life. At the same dinner when Jesus came and sat by Lazarus and Mary came and washed His feet, Martha cooked the food and washed the plates. As Mary lavished her love on Jesus with the ointment, Martha lavished hers with service. As the air was filled with the fragrance of the perfume, so too the air was also filled with the aroma of Martha’s dinner. Oh yes we know the story of Mary will be told forever, but we must never forget that Jesus also loved Martha. Martha gave the best she had. If you are a Martha don’t be ashamed, just give your best and learn like she did to focus your eyes on Jesus and serve Him wherever you are!

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Riding on a Donkey

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Then Jesus, when He had found a young donkey, sat on it; as it is written: “Fear not, daughter of Zion; Behold, your King is coming, sitting on a donkey’s colt.  John 12:14-15

The fact that Jesus chose the most humble animal to ride as He entered Jerusalem gives me hope. Like the donkey most of us are not powerful, wealthy or amazingly smart. We are just ordinary people in ordinary neighborhoods with everyday problems. Why would God, the universe creator, the King of Glory, the glorious and holy ruler of all life be interested in us? How could we dare even think that we could bring our need for daily bread and forgiveness for our sins to him?

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We can hope because our king is coming, not to conquer us or arrest us but to help us. He is coming humbly to take His throne and righteously rule over the life of anyone who will welcome Him. He knows we are afraid. He understands the feelings of our weaknesses. He has faced every temptation we have, yet without sin. He has tasted death for everyone who has ever lived. He is coming, to be our king, seated on a donkey, so we will not be afraid. Today is the day to greet Him with palm branches along the path. He is coming to us and He has chosen to give His life for us again today!