JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Wisdom from the Red Letters is found in Luke 24:17.

Jesus asked two people walking on the road to Emmaus, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?”

Sometimes, there is wisdom in asking a well-timed question. Jesus gave opportunity for Cleopas and his companion to talk about their discouragement after Jesus was crucified. Without recognizing Jesus, Cleopas confided that he had hoped Jesus was the one who was going to redeem Israel. He and his companion did not know what to think about all that happened and the reports that Jesus was alive.

Then Jesus proceeded to explain what the Scriptures said about Him. While Jesus talked, their hearts burned within them. He ignited hope. Jesus walked with them during the conversation. His example shows us that being a voice of encouragement for someone involves asking good questions, offering a listening ear, sharing words of hope, and walking the journey with them.  

The words of Jesus inspire us to be a voice of hope for those who are discouraged in the Year of Redemption.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Persons of Integrity from the Bible are Cleopas and his traveling friend.

Three days after Jesus died on a cross, these two men were traveling toward Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. They were rather discouraged as they talked about the events that unfolded.

Then Jesus, who had risen from the dead, joined them on their journey. He asked what they were talking about? They talked about Jesus even as they walked along the road with Him. They mentioned that they hoped he was going to be the one to redeem Israel, and they had heard reports of his empty tomb.

Then, Jesus went through the writings of Moses and the Prophets to explain what was said in the Scriptures concerning Himself. Their hearts were burning within them while Jesus talked with them on the road. Then when they sat at the table with Jesus, they recognized Him. Disappointment turned to passion for the Gospel as they talked with Jesus and heard the evidence that He was the Promised Messiah.

The faithfulness of Cleopas and his traveling friend to walk with Jesus inspires us to take our journey of faith with Jesus and to live a life of Integrity.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com