"We’re finishing the book Luke today! Three Gospels done."
We had hoped He was the Messiah who had come to rescue Israel.
Many of the disciples were disheartened to see Jesus—the person who they hoped was the Messiah—crucified and buried. They had other ideas of what a Messiah should have done. Topple Rome, perhaps. Bring down the force of heaven on all oppressors, maybe. Just not be crucified and die flanked by criminals.
What do you hope the Messiah would do for you?
So sad and down-trodden were these disciples that they did not recognise that the risen Jesus was walking right next to them. They didn’t hear His voice as He encouraged and chastised them just as He had done many times before. Their thoughts were so occupied by who Jesus was supposed to be in their minds (the dangerous revolutionary) that they missed the Jesus they always knew. The Jesus that just conquered death. The Jesus that is. The Jesus that stood right before them.
Perhaps with all my chasing for what I want, I, too, might miss the Jesus that I know.
"It’s the last one I’ll eat until we all eat it together in the kingdom of God.” (Luke 22.16) … “This is my body, given for you. Eat it in my memory.” (Luke 22.19)
The first communion was also Jesus’s last meal on earth. When we celebrate communion, we join that last meal and look forward to the first meal together in the kingdom of God.
"This cup is the new covenant written in my blood..." (Luke 22.20)
New covenant = a new way of living, my dad likes to say. Has your life been changed by Jesus? Written in my blood, blood poured out for you.
Intentionally seek Jesus in unexpected places this week—nature, a stranger's kindness, or quiet prayer—and journal about how these encounters help you see Him more clearly.
Identify one struggle in embracing Christ’s new way of living—like forgiveness or boldness. Take one specific action this week, such as reconciling or volunteering, to align with this covenant.
Participate in communion with a fresh perspective. Spend time contemplating Jesus' sacrifice and use the bread and cup as a personal reaffirmation of your dedication to follow Him.