Tom Barnard

“They asked each other, ‘Were not our hearts burning within us

while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?’”

Luke 24:32

In the July 2008 issue of “AARP—The Magazine”—there is a health report on heartburn—or as it is commonly called, “acid indigestion.” According to the American Gastroenterological Association about 60 percent of Americans experience it at least once a year. But a third of us experience it weekly, and many experience it daily. When it becomes chronic, it can spell danger for those who suffer with it. The more serious condition is called GERD—“gastroesophageal reflux disease.”

Dr. Luke was referring to another type of “heartburn”—a wonderful side-effect of being with Jesus. You remember the story, don’t you? It was the first Easter Sunday. Two of the followers of Jesus were walking together toward Emmaus, a village about seven miles from Jerusalem. They were grieving about the events of the week that led to the crucifixion of Jesus. Suddenly the risen Lord appeared and joined them on their way home. They didn’t recognize him. Downcast, they reflected on the loss of their friend and Savior. As they drew near to the village, the men urged their new companion to stay the evening with them. At dinner, Jesus “took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him….” Holy heartburn, indeed.

What steps led to their eyes being opened?

1.      Jesus approached the men on their way home. They weren’t seeking him; he sought them.

2.      Jesus engaged them in conversation. He took the initiative. He didn’t wait to be asked.

3.      He opened the Scriptures to them. He tied the events of the week to Old Testament promises.

4.      He joined them in their home for dinner. He became part of their lives. Hope was born anew.

Jesus does the same today, through His Spirit. He seeks us out in our most discouraging times. He engages with us in a way that focuses on the important things in our lives. He leads us to Scripture for solutions to life’s challenges. And he stays around as long as he is invited and welcomed.

Spirit of Jesus, forgive me for allowing my pain to be a distraction so that I fail to recognize your presence. You know me better than I know myself; start there, and direct me to eternal truth that is life-changing. Accompany me in the everyday places where I walk and work. And remain close, becoming part of my life. Grant me the hope I need to face today’s trials. Help me to recognize you in the shadows of my life. Open my eyes to the work you are doing, even when I am not aware that you are doing anything. And please, don’t let me stray from your side. Amen.