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The journey of Jesus did not stop when He was crucified and rose again on the third day. But the journey continues after He comes out of the grave. In Luke 24, we see that Jesus went to over 500 people to tell them that the Scripture was fulfilled and that Jesus rose from the dead.
Try to picture what it must have been like for these followers of Jesus; after all, they saw Jesus being beaten, whipped, and crucified on the Cross, taken off the Cross, and put into the tomb. How many of us would doubt the promise of the resurrection?
The disciples did not believe that Jesus rose from the dead. In Luke 24:11, we read, “But the story (of the resurrection) sounded like nonsense to the men, so they did not believe it.”
We read about all these encounters that people had with Jesus, but they did not recognize Him or believe it was Him. In Luke 24: 36-37, “And just as they were telling about it, Jesus Himself was suddenly standing there among them, “Peace be with you, He said.” But the whole group was startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost.” How many of us would respond this way if we were there?
How did Jesus respond to their doubt, fear, and unbelief? How does Jesus deal with our fear and anxiety?) (And how does Jesus deal with us when we doubt and do not believe His promises?
Beginning in verse 38, we read, “Why are you frightened?, He asked. “Why are your hearts filled with doubt? Look at my hands. Look at my feet. You can see that it is really Me. Touch Me and ensure that I am not a ghost because ghosts do not have bodies, as you see that I do.” As He spoke, He showed them His hands and his feet.”
Jesus ministers to us where we are on our spiritual journey! The Lord is leading us all the way, even when we are fearful and have doubts and questions. Jesus can handle our thoughts, emotions, and feelings and will love us right where we are as long as we follow Jesus.
There are many things in life that we will not understand, but if we continue to follow Him, He will lead us and guide us!
In verse 41, “Still they stood there in disbelief, filled with joy and wonder.” Lord, fill us with joy and wonder, even when we do not understand everything on our journey of following Jesus!
Thank you, Lord, that You know and understand me and will never leave me! What a wonderful Lord we follow today!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Pastor Ronald Squibb has been the Lead Senior Pastor of the International Christian Church (ICC) at Staten Island, New York, since 2011. He draws many experiences from his over 40 years as a pastor and significant emotional life experiences.
His new book, Following the Journey with Jesus, which he co-authored with Daniel McNaughton, was recently published and is getting rave reviews. His daily devotional appears in this publication.
