Monday, April 29, 2019

Road Trip, Part 1




“And behold, two of them were going that very day to a village named Emmaus; which was about seven miles from Jerusalem.  And they were conversing with each other about all these things which had taken place.  And it came about that while they were conversing and discussing, Jesus Himself approached, and began travelling with them. 

“But their eyes were prevented from recognising Him.  And He said to them, ‘What are these words that you are exchanging with one another as you are walking?’

“And they stood still, looking sad.  And one of them, named Cleopas, answered and said to Him, ‘Are You the only one visiting Jerusalem and unaware of the things which have happened here in these days?’  And He said to them, ‘What things?’ 

And they said to Him, ‘The things about Jesus the Nazarene, who was a prophet might in deed and word in the sight of God and all the people, and how the chief priests and our rulers delivered Him up to the sentence of death and crucified Him.  But we were hoping that it was He who was going to redeem Israel.  Indeed, besides all this, it is the third day since these things happened.’”  Luke 24:13-21

These disciples knew the Truth, yet were temporarily discouraged.  They shared their disappointment with a Stranger as they walked away, likely to return home, too (see yesterday’s devotion).  Interesting conversation thus far, one a bit confusing for Someone who said He was unaware and wanted to hear their thoughts.  

Often, we too, may share our testimony or witness to those we love or know and hope they understand – yet our language often is just as confusing as they disciples. 

Take care with love, especially His!  Your servant and friend in Christ, who still prays for you each morning.  Darlene

PS: Please send your prayer updates.  Find my statement of faith by clicking or cut and paste this link into your Web browser:  https://especiallyhislove.blogspot.com   You can find the WeakDay Devotion online by doing a Google search for “WeakDay Devotion.”  (Also, there is a “Google Blogger” App you can download to read them on your phone.)

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS
·        Jen D - My good friend who has been recovering from sepsis has begun to show symptoms again and is in much pain.  The doctor has now visited and thinks she is better now.  Thank you for praying for her and please continue that she will fully regain her strength.
·        Five Ways to Pray for the Christians in Sri Lanka: https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/the-bombs-on-easter-sunday - death toll - over 250 died, more than 500 injured Easter morning.  ISIS has claimed responsibility.  Please read the Desiring God link above to know how best to pray for this situation.  Pray more earnestly for Christians who are increasingly being attacked around the world for their choice to follow the risen Jesus Christ. 
·        Pray for any new strangers in your church – Easter brings individuals into your local church that need a warm and encouraging welcome.  Please pray for courage and love.
·        Earthquakes in The Philippines - Isaias and Judith (Ambassadors for Christ in The Philippines) – Isaias returned to home to be greeted by earthquakes and flooding.  Pray for him, his family and their expanding ministry there.  Pray for his safety and travelling mercies.  This ministry gives so much to so many for so little.  To learn more:  http://www.afciworld.org (Top of page:  "Where We Work” > “Asia-Pacific” > "Philippines").
·        USA – that the Lord would demonstrate His power in an unexpected and uniting way during these times of unrest and confusion.  Help hearts settle and rest in Him alone.
·        Sergio – lost his job and now looking again.  He was recently diagnosed with adult-onset diabetes.  Was living with his brother, but has been asked to move out, leaving him homeless.  
·        Toron – finishing his high school studies and needing strength, focus and confidence, especially with maths.

PRAY FOR THOSE IN FULL-TIME SERVICE

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