Luke 24:36-43 - Unbelief removed

Luke had selected three incidences to prove the resurrection of the Lord. First, the women at the empty tomb; then the two Emmaus companions with Christ traveling with them incognito. In verses 36-43, he shares the third incidence to eradicate any doubt about the resurrection of the Lord. As Cleopas and his companion were still excitedly narrating their encounter to the remaining eleven disciples and those gathered in the room, the Resurrected Christ appeared and stood in the midst of them. And He announced His presence by assuring them, saying "Peace be with you."

Thinking that they had seen an apparition, they were startled and gripped with fear. What He said to them shows that they were troubled, confused and still doubting. He asked them two questions, “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your hearts?” Obviously, these questions were a gentle rebuke of their unbelief. The questions implied that they had either forgotten what He had told them about His resurrection, or that they simply refused to believe what He had said. Unbelief always results in despair and confusion.

Aren't they so human? Aren't we so like them? Despite having mountain-top experiences with the Lord, yet in the midst of valley-low experiences we still often wonder if the Lord cares. We would still doubt His promises. This should help us know that regardless of what we may go through, the Lord cares. Yes, even in the tough seasons of our lives. The Lord then showed them His nail-scared hands and feet. Since they were sense bound human, He invited them not only to see those scars on His hands and feet but also to touch them. He wanted them to feel and know for certain that He was truly flesh and bones, and not just a spirit.

Luke specifically tells us that in their joy and amazement, they could not believe it. So He did something to conclusively prove that He had come back to life. He asked for something to eat. When they gave Him a piece of broiled fish. He took it and ate it before them. He is alive! Know that every time we come to our devotion or prayer time, the Lord will always draw near. Even in the everyday moment of life, even when we are not conscious of His presence, He is always there. For He said, “I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you.” What an incredible promise!