It has been a week since we celebrated Easter and one of the things that we might think about is “Why did Jesus reveal himself as living to certain individuals before he even showed himself to the remaining 11 disciples?” There are three recorded instances on Easter Sunday that Jesus showed himself to specific people. And we can’t know for sure, but in each instance, the people had a certain need. The first person to see Jesus alive was Mary Magdalene. She was a person who Jesus had freed from all kinds of bondage, and she loved him for his healing but also for his loving acceptance of her. The second person that we know of was Peter, of the remaining disciples. He was the outspoken, brash, take no prisoners kind of guy. But wen Jesus was arrested and headed to crucifixion, Peter folded and denied him three times. Jesus had an unrecorded one on one with Peter. Peter obviously repented of his actions and was forgiven and restored to lead the believers. And then at the close of this amazing day there were two disciples that were not a part of that inner circle but where walking back to their home in Emmaus and Jesus puts himself in a place where he could easily join them and even go home with them. When Jesus first spoke to them, they didn’t recognize him, but it says that “They stood still, with sadness on their faces.” He gave them hope again. And then only at the very end of this amazing day he appears to most of his disciples. What did these first three sets of folks have in common? They were people whose hearts were broken. They had apparently had a strong belief in him…but an even stronger love for him. Because they had tasted already the grace and mercy and kindness and love of God through him. There is a reminder here for us too. If you believe and love this Jesus of the Bible, the living Christ will be there in a special way when your heart is broken, and your dreams are crushed. There is a good chance that you won’t get to see him with your eyes…yet. But through the Holy Spirit, his presence will bring healing and hope to your heart and you will know that God does indeed have a great big, beautiful tomorrow for you. Here’s our Bible verse for today…
Luke 24:33-35 BSB And they got up that very hour and returned to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, gathered together (34) and saying, “The Lord has indeed risen and has appeared to Simon!” (35) Then the two told what had happened on the road, and how they had recognized Jesus in the breaking of the bread.
Remember I’m praying for you!
With love, PJ
Luke 24:33-35 BSB And they got up that very hour and returned to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, gathered together (34) and saying, “The Lord has indeed risen and has appeared to Simon!” (35) Then the two told what had happened on the road, and how they had recognized Jesus in the breaking of the bread.
Remember I’m praying for you!
With love, PJ