Have You Ever Wondered? - Weekly Devo - 4/6/15

Have you ever wondered?
 

 from Lenae GEMS Training Manager

And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself (Luke 24:27).

The women wondered. When Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome ran to Jesus’ tomb and found it empty, they were alarmed and wondered.

Peter wondered. Although the women told the apostles that Jesus is risen the men thought the message sounded like nonsense. Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb. Bending over, he saw the strips of linen lying by themselves, and he went away, wondering to himself what had happened (v. 12).

The men on the Road to Emmaus wondered. On that same day Cleopas and his friend were on their way to a village called Emmaus. As they walked, they talked about all that had happened. They wondered what this was all about? They had hoped Jesus would redeem Israel, and now this. He’s crucified and dead!

Then Jesus came up, and walked with them. He entered the discussion with a question, rebuked their unbelief, and explained all the Scriptures said about Himself. He clarified their confusion by word and deed. First with the unfolding of Scripture, then at the table—thanking the Father and breaking bread.

On this day after Easter are there people near you who are wondering? Are there children wondering about the connection of Easter bunnies and the cross? Are there Christians wondering why their Easter joy so quickly dissipates within the first waking hours of their Monday morning? Are there colleagues and neighbors who had a nice weekend, but neither experienced nor cared that it had no connection to Christ?

As people wonder, will you walk with them, ask pointed questions, and bring the message?

Send Me: Ask people about their Easter weekend and then really listen. If they express confusion, disappointment, or wonderings, share the Good News.

Helping others notice and name their inner hopes, longings and aspirations is a great gift to them. You have helped them move from a vague sense of disquiet and wondering to awareness that what they long for is God. — Richard Peace