FINDING HOPE ALONG THE WAY
The travelers on the road to Emmaus had trouble recognizing Jesus, even though he'd been right there with them all along. Their vision was clouded by doubt, discouragement, disappointment, and even despair. Sometimes our vision gets clouded too- we become so focused on the struggles of life that we miss God's redemption plan at work. It can take time and intentionality to see through these struggles and recognize the Truth- that the Resurrection changes everything. Through Jesus' life, death, and resurrection, we can find peace and hope that starts now and lasts forever.
INSTRUCTIONS-
1) Take a few minutes to look through the list of "blinders" below. Which option resonates with you the most right now?
2) When you decide on the option that you relate with, read the short biblical story beside it- these blinders are almost as old as time itself. You are not alone in your pain.
3) After you've identified your struggle and read the story, have a short conversation with God. Be honest with Him. He already knows your worries and struggles, but there is something liberating about laying them at His feet and honestly asking for His help.
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DOUBT
John the Baptist
("Are you the One, are should we expect someone else?")
Click Here to Read Matthew 11:2-6
DISAPPOINTMENT
Martha & Mary ("Lord, if you had been here...")
Click Here to Read John 11:1-37
DISCOURAGEMENT
David ("My tears have been my food day and night")
Click Here to Read Psalm 42:1-11
DESPAIR
Elijah (“I have had enough, Lord.”)
Click Here to Read 1 Kings 19:1-18
SHAME
Adam & Eve (“I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid... so I hid.”)
Click Here to Read Genesis 3:1-10
CONTROL
Abraham & Sarah (Taking Matters into Their Own Hands)
Click Here to Read Genesis 15:1-6; 16:1-5
GRIEF
Naomi ("I went away full, but the Lord has brought me back empty.")
Click Here to Read Ruth 1:3-7; 19-21
PRIDE
The Rich Young Ruler ("All these [commandments] I have kept. What do I still lack?")