Suddenly!

Walking with Jesus on the road to Emmaus, two men heard Him explain “the writings of Moses and all the prophets,” everything “concerning himself ” (v. 27). But they didn’t realize it was Jesus until He finished His explanation. Then, “suddenly, their eyes were opened.” They realized they had been talking with Jesus. Then, just as suddenly, He disappeared.

We might wonder why He disappeared at that moment. Why didn’t He linger longer? Why didn’t He say more?

The Bible tells us that His post-resurrection appearances often seemed fleeting. We see, for example, how the disciples were behind locked doors when Jesus appeared “suddenly,” standing among them (John 20:26).

During His ascension, the disciples stared into the sky, watching Him rise into a cloud until “two white-robed men suddenly stood among them,” wondering why they continued to stare. They had to move on (Acts 1:9-12).

The Bible reminds us that He employs the same pattern today. We might wish He would linger longer. Speak louder. But Jesus has His own timetable for answering prayers, revealing Himself, and speaking to us. He might surprise us, working in ways we never would have guessed for reasons we never would have perceived.

Seek to be sensitive to His presence. Remember, you never know when He might speak or share a new revelation. Be sure to focus on doing His work. Be a faithful steward of His resources, but always be alert for His presence.