I Will Do What it Takes

Luke 24:28-31, 41-42, 49 

(28-31) By this time they were nearing Emmaus and the end of their journey. Jesus acted as if he were going on, but they begged him, “Stay the night with us, since it is getting late.” So he went home with them. As they sat down to eat, he took the bread and blessed it. Then he broke it and gave it to them. Suddenly, their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And at that moment he disappeared! 

(41-42) Still they stood there in disbelief, filled with joy and wonder. Then he asked them, “Do you have anything here to eat?” They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he ate it as they watched.

(49) “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.” 

I will do what it takes to help you to see me, to believe in me – to have faith.  Remember what I did when I appeared to my disciples after my death and resurrection – I ate food to prove that the body that they saw was real – not that of a spirit or ghost.  I do not need to eat – I do not need a body nor clothing nor anything that you all need.  But I am willing to wear those things, to do those things that will help you to believe.  Look around you – I am working all the time in many ways that you do not take the time to see.  Look for me and you will see me everywhere.  I am all around you, all the time.  I am working to help you to see me in everything.  Open your spiritual eyes and your physical eyes will be opened.

Remember also that it is I that opens your mind to understand my Word.  You are not capable of understanding anything in my Word without my help.  It would be foolishness to you, as it is to all unbelievers.  So, do not become prideful about your wonderful intellectual and spiritual capabilities – your abilities come directly from me.  I decided to grant you these abilities.  I wish to use you.  Will you spend the time with me that I might teach you and you might reach others for me?  Your gifts have a price.  Will you pay?

Just as I had my followers stay in Jerusalem until I sent the Holy Spirit – so too you are to stay silent and do nothing without him.  Do not venture out in your own strength or knowledge.  Ask daily for the presence of the Spirit.  Until you are with him, you are not capable of doing my work.  Don’t try. (2003)