Luke 24:28–35 (ESV)
So they drew near to the village to which they were going. He acted as if he were going farther, but they urged him strongly, saying, “Stay with us, for it is toward evening and the day is now far spent.” So he went in to stay with them. When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it and gave it to them. And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And he vanished from their sight. They said to each other, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?” And they rose that same hour and returned to Jerusalem. And they found the eleven and those who were with them gathered together, saying, “The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!” Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he was known to them in the breaking of the bread.
First, they urge Jesus to spend the night, saying, “Stay with us, for it is toward evening and the day is now far spent.” But after Jesus reveals Himself, they returned to Jerusalem. Remember, they had been aware of the events of the day but skeptical of what it all means. The shock of suddenly recognizing Jesus and then having Him disappear ends that skepticism with a bang. Their emotions soar, and they head home that same hour.
We know from verse thirteen that this is a trip of about seven miles, so it’s about a two hour walk—or a one-hour jog. One hour sounds closer, given the circumstances. They may have made it before it got totally dark. Don’t forget that the only artificial light at that time came from candles and oil lamps—all pretty much useless to a runner. However, since the Passover began on the night of a full moon, they would have had a nearly full moon rising a little after sunset. Their actions were emotional but not stupid.
Once there, they discover that they’re not the only ones who’ve seen Him. They hear what has happened to others, and they share what happened to them. That room where everyone is gathered is the news network of the day. It’s the number one news story of all time, and it’s still developing. They know He is risen and they’re starting to connect the dots on everything Jesus had told them. Still, there are lots of unanswered questions.
Imagine the intensity and excitement the networks would have for this story if it was breaking today. The disciples have that—minus the commercials.
The depression is gone. The energy is almost manic. They’re paying attention now.
Abraham Lincoln said, “I have often been driven upon my knees by the solemn realization I had nowhere else to go.” Everyone has trials. It’s good to let them drive us to our knees.
This gang has “been there, done that,” and they’re stronger for it. They’re going to need that strength too. Consider the trials you’ve had in the past—and those experienced by friends. How did they bring change? In retrospect, can you see their purpose? These are the lessons you need for current and future trials.
So, does that change how you should pray when facing a trial?
