Seeing But Not Seeing

by Dean W. Masters

" Now on that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing him." (Luke 24:13-16, NRSV)

The news has had stories of some people who have been blind for a long time. Then through medical technology they could see. They could see items but their brain could not process all they saw. So at times they could see without really seeing.

The two men on the road to Emmaus saw Jesus but were kept from recognizing Him until a later time. These two had just gone through a huge ordeal with the crucifixion of Jesus, their leader. They thought the whole thing was over. They wondered if any of it was true. So they were going home.

When we go through hard times it is hard to see that Jesus is still with us. We may be facing a terrible disease. It may be the loss of a job. It may be the death of a loved one or good friend. During these times we may think that Jesus is not with us. We know that Jesus rose from the dead and ascended into heaven. So we can be sure that Jesus will always be there if we just turn to Him. As He said,

"… And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”" (Matthew 28:20b, NRSV)

Prayer: Lord Jesus, we thank You that You are always with us. Help us to see that You are there even in the dark times and we have a hard time seeing You. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen

Thought: Let us look to Jesus and see Him at all times.