Finding Hope: Jesus Meets Us in Despair
Summary
Today, we gathered in gratitude for the many ways God is at work among us—through new opportunities like our livestream, the faithful service of our confirmation students, and the joyful presence of the Dort praise team. We celebrated the deep connections we share as a church family, and the unique relationships God weaves between us and other communities, like Dort University. In the midst of all our activity, we turned our attention to the story of the risen Jesus meeting two discouraged followers on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24). These two, overwhelmed by grief and convinced that hope was lost, were heading away from Jerusalem, unable to imagine that God could still be at work.
Yet, Jesus drew near to them in their confusion and sorrow. He listened to their pain, walked alongside them, and gently opened the Scriptures to reveal God’s purposes—even when they could not recognize him. Their story reminds us that Jesus often comes to us in our moments of despair, not with spectacle or vengeance, but with quiet presence and patient love. He seeks out the lost, the downcast, and the hopeless, just as he promised. Even when we are blind to his presence—whether by our own pain, doubt, or limited imagination—he is there, working for our good.
We reflected on how easy it is to miss Jesus in our own lives, especially when we are overwhelmed by circumstances or convinced that nothing can change. But the resurrection means that the impossible is possible: Jesus has defeated sin, death, and the devil. He knows each of us by name, and nothing can keep him from coming to us—not our sin, not our failures, not even our inability to see him. The cross stands at the center of our faith as a reminder that where we feel God’s absence most, he promises to be present.
We also celebrated the sacrament of baptism, welcoming Elan and Rory into the family of God. Baptism is a sign of God’s promise—a visible word that God is at work, bringing new life and calling us to pass on faith to the next generation. As a church, we are entrusted with the joyful responsibility of nurturing faith, pointing out God’s work in each other’s lives, and shining the light of Christ in the world.
Key Takeaways
- Jesus meets us in our confusion and despair, even when we are heading in the wrong direction. Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, we may be so overwhelmed by grief or disappointment that we cannot imagine God is still at work. Yet, Jesus draws near, listens to our hearts, and patiently reveals himself, reminding us that hope is never lost in him. [31:39]
- Our inability to recognize God’s presence is often rooted in our own expectations and limitations. The disciples could not see Jesus because they could not imagine resurrection; likewise, we may miss God’s work when we are convinced that our situation is beyond hope. Faith invites us to trust that God is present and active, even when we cannot see or understand. [32:36]
- The risen Jesus seeks out the lost, the hurting, and the overlooked—not just the prominent or the faithful. His first post-resurrection appearance outside the tomb is to two ordinary followers, reminding us that no one is beyond his reach. He comes not with spectacle, but with gentle companionship, turning our hearts toward hope and new life. [35:21]
- The cross and resurrection mean that the impossible is possible. While anyone can do good in the world, only Jesus can bring victory over sin, death, and the devil. True transformation comes not just from knowing about God’s gifts, but from knowing the Giver himself—receiving his life, forgiveness, and power to do what we could never do on our own. [28:48]
- Baptism is a sign of God’s promise and a call to active faith. It is not a guarantee apart from faith, but a gift to be claimed and lived out. As a community, we are called to nurture faith in one another, to point out God’s work, and to pass on the light of Christ to the next generation, trusting that God is always at work in and through us. [56:47]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[01:10] - Announcements and Upcoming Events
[03:45] - Dort Praise Team Introduction
[06:20] - Opening Prayer and Greeting
[08:00] - Worship and Freedom in Christ
[12:04] - Transition to Scripture
[13:00] - Reading: Luke 24 and the Road to Emmaus
[23:40] - The Disciples’ Grief and Lost Hope
[25:07] - Goodness Without Faith vs. the Impossible With Christ
[28:48] - The Victory of the Resurrection
[30:45] - Going the Wrong Direction: Missing Jesus
[32:36] - Recognizing Jesus in Our Midst
[35:21] - Jesus Seeks the Lost and Downcast
[41:23] - Jesus Knows Your Name and Comes for You
[44:14] - Baptism: God’s Promise and Our Response
[54:21] - Baptism of Elan and Rory
[56:47] - Passing on Faith and Welcoming the Baptized
[01:00:07] - Prayers, Blessing, and Sending
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: The Road to Emmaus & Recognizing Jesus in Our Lives
---
### Bible Reading
- Luke 24:13-35 (The Road to Emmaus)
---
### Observation Questions
1. In the story of the road to Emmaus, what were the two followers of Jesus feeling and discussing as they walked away from Jerusalem? What does the text say about their emotional state?
[[23:40]]
2. When Jesus joined the two disciples on the road, how did he interact with them before they recognized him? What actions did he take?
[[36:30]]
3. According to the sermon, what kept the disciples from recognizing Jesus as he walked with them?
[[32:36]]
4. What happened that finally opened the disciples’ eyes to recognize Jesus?
[[23:40]]
---
### Interpretation Questions
1. The disciples were heading away from Jerusalem, convinced that hope was lost. What does this reveal about how grief and disappointment can affect our ability to see God at work?
[[31:39]]
2. The sermon suggests that Jesus often comes to us in quiet, gentle ways rather than with spectacle. Why might Jesus choose to reveal himself in this way, especially to those who are hurting or lost?
[[35:21]]
3. The inability of the disciples to recognize Jesus was connected to their expectations and what they believed was possible. How do our own expectations sometimes keep us from seeing God’s presence or work in our lives?
[[32:36]]
4. Baptism was described as a sign of God’s promise and a call to active faith. How does this understanding of baptism shape the way we view our role in nurturing faith in others?
[[56:47]]
---
### Application Questions
1. The disciples on the road to Emmaus were overwhelmed by grief and couldn’t imagine that God was still at work. Can you think of a time in your life when you felt hopeless or unable to see God’s presence? What helped you move forward, or what might help you next time?
[[31:39]]
2. The sermon said that Jesus meets us in our confusion and despair, even when we’re heading in the wrong direction. Is there an area of your life right now where you feel lost, discouraged, or like you’re going the wrong way? What would it look like to invite Jesus to walk with you there?
[[30:45]]
3. Sometimes we miss Jesus because we expect him to show up in certain ways. What are some expectations or assumptions you have about how God should work in your life? How might those be limiting your ability to see him at work?
[[32:36]]
4. The sermon reminded us that Jesus seeks out the lost, the hurting, and the overlooked—not just the prominent or the faithful. Who in your life might need to be reminded that Jesus is seeking them out? How could you be part of showing them his love this week?
[[35:21]]
5. The cross stands at the center of our faith as a reminder that where we feel God’s absence most, he promises to be present. Where do you feel God’s absence right now? How can you hold onto the promise of his presence in that place?
[[41:23]]
6. Baptism is a sign of God’s promise and a call to active faith. If you have been baptized, what does that mean for how you live out your faith day to day? If you haven’t been baptized, what questions or thoughts do you have about it?
[[56:47]]
7. As a church, we are called to nurture faith in one another and pass on the light of Christ to the next generation. What is one practical way you can encourage or support someone else’s faith this week—maybe a child, a friend, or someone new to church?
[[56:47]]
---
Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite the group to pray for open eyes to see Jesus at work in their lives, especially in places of confusion, grief, or doubt. Pray for the courage to nurture faith in others and to trust God’s promises, even when they are hard to see.
Devotional
Day 1: Jesus Meets Us in Our Darkest Moments
When life feels overwhelming and hope seems lost, Jesus does not abandon us. Like the two disciples on the road to Emmaus, you may find yourself walking away from the places and people that once gave you comfort, weighed down by grief or disappointment. Yet, Jesus draws near in these moments—not with grand displays, but with a quiet presence that listens deeply to your pain. He walks alongside you, patiently opening your heart to the truth that hope is never truly gone. Even when you cannot see or feel it, His love is working for your good, inviting you to trust in His nearness. [31:39]
Luke 24:13-16
That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and they were talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing him. And he said to them, “What is this conversation that you are holding with each other as you walk?”
Reflection:
Think about a recent time when you felt overwhelmed or hopeless. How might Jesus have been walking alongside you in that moment, even if you didn’t recognize His presence? What would it look like to invite Him into your current struggles today?
Day 2: Faith Beyond Our Limited Expectations
Often, the reason we fail to recognize God’s work is because our minds are trapped by what we think is possible. The disciples on the road to Emmaus could not imagine resurrection, so they missed Jesus standing right beside them. Similarly, when you are convinced that your situation is beyond hope or that God’s promises cannot be true for you, it becomes difficult to see His hand at work. Faith calls you to trust beyond what your eyes and feelings tell you, to believe that God is present and active even when circumstances suggest otherwise. This trust opens your heart to new possibilities and deeper understanding. [32:36]
Luke 24:25-27
And he said to them, “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.
Reflection:
Identify one area in your life where your expectations limit your faith. How can you begin to challenge those limitations and open yourself to the possibility that God is working in ways you cannot yet see?
Day 3: Jesus Seeks the Lost and Overlooked
The risen Jesus does not appear first to the powerful or the religious elite, but to two ordinary, discouraged followers. This reminds you that no one is beyond His reach—whether you feel lost, broken, or forgotten. Jesus comes not with spectacle or judgment, but with gentle companionship, meeting you where you are and turning your heart toward hope and new life. His presence is a reminder that God’s love is inclusive and persistent, seeking out those who feel invisible or unworthy. You are known by name and deeply valued. [35:21]
Luke 24:28-31
So they drew near to the village to which they were going. He acted as if he were going farther, but they urged him strongly, saying, “Stay with us, because it is toward evening and the day is now far spent.” So he went in to stay with them. When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it and gave it to them. And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him.
Reflection:
Who in your life feels overlooked or lost? How might you reflect Jesus’ gentle companionship to them this week by simply being present and listening without judgment?
Day 4: The Cross and Resurrection Make the Impossible Possible
While many can do good deeds, only Jesus has conquered sin, death, and the devil. The resurrection is the ultimate demonstration that what seems impossible—new life, forgiveness, transformation—is available through Him. True change comes not from human effort alone but from receiving the life and power of the risen Christ. This means that no matter your failures or weaknesses, you can experience victory and renewal by knowing Jesus personally, not just knowing about Him. The cross stands at the center of this hope, reminding you that God’s presence is strongest where you feel most broken. [28:48]
Luke 24:44-47
Then he said to them, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled.” Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, and said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem.”
Reflection:
What is one “impossible” area in your life where you need to invite the power of the resurrection? How can you practically receive Christ’s life and forgiveness in that area today?
Day 5: Baptism as a Living Promise and Call
Baptism is more than a ritual; it is a visible sign of God’s promise and a call to active faith. It marks new life in Christ and entrusts the community with the responsibility to nurture and pass on faith. When you witness or participate in baptism, you are reminded that faith is a journey lived out in relationship—with God and with one another. This means pointing out God’s work in each other’s lives, encouraging growth, and shining the light of Christ into the world. Baptism invites you to embrace your role in this ongoing story of grace and transformation. [56:47]
Luke 3:21-22
Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the heavens were opened, and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form, like a dove; and a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”
Reflection:
How can you actively participate in nurturing faith within your church family this week? Is there someone you can encourage or support as they grow in their walk with Christ?
Quotes
It's true you don't have to believe in Jesus as Lord and Savior to believe that he rose from the dead to do great things in the world, but you do have to believe in him, in Jesus as Lord and Savior, if you want to do impossible things. [00:27:27] (15 seconds)
The cross and the empty tomb mean that Jesus has defeated sin, death, and the devil. The victory Jesus won over these enemies is extended to all who call on his name, all who receive him as Lord. So apart from Jesus, we cannot win the battle over sin, death, and the devil. [00:27:47] (17 seconds)
They need their lives turned around. They need hope. They need purpose. They need truth. They need salvation. And I just love this for it's just the same as he had preached and lived and shown. Jesus comes to heal and bring hope, to restore and to save. That's who he is. [00:35:31] (26 seconds)
and maybe it's your own choices or sin or maybe it's someone else's sin that is bleeding into your life and you just can't shake it on your own you're caught in the fallout and you just don't see Jesus walking with you maybe like these two followers you just don't think the impossible is possible you can't imagine that God could ever forgive you or heal your heart your mind or your body you can't imagine that there's anything beyond the finality of death you can't imagine that there's anything greater than the evil that you see at work in the world sometimes that evil that's at work in you or sometimes it's just the evil you see on the news or maybe you're like these two just hurting and hopeless and lost just going in the wrong direction well I've got good news [00:40:33] (49 seconds)
Jesus knew them both intimately and he showed up for them because he knows them he sees their need and he hears their cry he knows them and he comes for them and listen to me Jesus knows you he knows your name and he is alive and death can't stop him the devil can't hinder his plans and your sin won't keep him away amen for he has defeated them all and he's here today for you he's defeated everything that would stand in the way of his love and his salvation that he longs to give you in John chapter 16 verse 33 Jesus says to the disciples in the world you'll have tribulations and troubles but take heart I have overcome the world the victory over sin death and the devil is complete we have a cross at the center of our faith people wear a cross on a chain around them not a dollar sign not prosperity they wear a cross to say what's impossible is possible where I feel Jesus the least is where he promises to be the most [00:42:09] (76 seconds)
and we need to be reminded of it and so we have a cross at the center of our faith that says that's where you'll find him even when you don't see him or feel him or know that he's there he longs to be with you and he is there that's the promise from God there is victory over sin and death he's alive the impossible is possible so if you're going in the wrong direction I invite you to repent and turn and come running into the arms of a risen Savior for he's alive he knows your name he's come for you today let's pray [00:43:26] (45 seconds)
Chatbot
-
I'm an AI bot trained only on this specific sermon. Do you have any questions about it?