Mission Accomplished

Recently, some of the astronauts who were stranded in space for almost nine months were stuck, only to discover they had more than a plane delay. This was supposed to be a short mission less than a few weeks. Now they were in a holding pattern. I cannot image being stuck in space for so long. It is not only amazing, but miraculous how they survived and made it back to planet earth landing here this week. Have you ever doubted something that was real or authentic? At times, we doubted promises that are made to us. The single person longing to become a bride someday, doubting she whe will ever get married. Only to be assured of getting married and having a family.

Jesus walking on the road to Emmaus appears to His disciples who were confused, upset, depmspondent and in despair, full of fear and doubt. Note the story in Luke’s Gospel 24:35-49.

“Then the two from Emmaus told their story of how Jesus had appeared to them as they were walking along the road, and how they had recognized him as he was breaking the bread. [36] And just as they were telling about it, Jesus himself was suddenly standing there among them. “Peace be with you,” he said. [37] But the whole group was startled and frightened, thinking they were seeing a ghost!

[38] “Why are you frightened?” he asked. “Why are your hearts filled with doubt?

Two of Jesus’s followers, Cleopas and an unnamed companion, were traveling to Emmaus, discussing the events surrounding Jesus’s death and resurrection. They had some doubts. They were looking for Jesus! Why are you scared? Why are your hearts filled with doubt? Remember. Jesus promised He would return and he did in a physical bodily not as a spirit or ghost! They didn’t recognize Jesus right away. They were caught up in their grumbling and complaining of doubt. Jesus emphasizes to tell them, it is him. Doubt is a subtle sin that can rock your faith. Fsith is not about feeling and emotions. It is about trusting God’s Word, the Bible and His promises.

[39] Look at my hands. Look at my feet. You can see that it’s really me. Touch me and make sure that I am not a ghost, because ghosts don’t have bodies, as you see that I do.”

Remember how Thomas doubted as well soon after the resurrection of Jesus.

“As he spoke, he showed them his hands and his feet. [41] Still they stood there in disbelief, filled with joy and wonder. Then he asked them, “Do you have anything here to eat?” [42] They gave him a piece of broiled fish, [43] and he ate it as they watched. [44] Then he said, “When I was with you before, I told you that everything written about me in the law of Moses and the prophets and in the Psalms must be fulfilled.” [45] Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. [46] And he said, “Yes, it was written long ago that the Messiah would suffer and die and rise from the dead on the third day.”

Their minds were opened to understand the Scriptures. The light bulb went on! Have you ever had a dimmer light bulb? It can be low and dull, hardly any light to see, then on highbit is so bright, you can see everything. Jesus became a reality to them, in a personal way again.

It was also written that this message would be proclaimed in the authority of his name to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem: ‘There is forgiveness of sins for all who repent.’ You are witnesses of all these things. Luke 24:47-48.

The disciples wrestled with fear and doubt, but now Jesus assures them that He is alive, because God the Father raised him from the dead.

How are we assured about salvation? Or the promise of receiving the Holy Spirit?

The disciples are filled with joy and understanding, realizing that Jesus is indeed the risen Lord, and they immediately return to Jerusalem to share the news with the other disciples.

“And this is what God has testified: He has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. [12] Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have God’s Son does not have life.”1 John 5:11-12

The disciples believed. Now they were commanded to tarry and wait in Jerusalem to receive the promise of the Holy Spirit.  Again he said, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I am sending you.” [22] Then he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. John 21:21-22

“And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven.” Luke 24:49

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8

The Dispiples were reassured of their faith, now they are praying to be equipped for ministry and sharing God’s love through the power of the Holy Spirit.

My friend, what are you afraid of when it comes to God? Doubts are not uncommon, but God wants a personal relationship with you everyday. The two on Emmaus road were no longer confused or in despair.. They recognized Jesus in Scripture and everyday living. Would you ask the Lord today to reestablish your faith and that he will fill youvwith the power of the Holy Spirit.