April 12 Virtual Worship
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Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty
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Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
Scripture Lesson
Sunday, April 5, 2026
Scripture Reading: Luke 24:13-27
Sermon: We Had Hope
Luke 24:13-27
13 Now on that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, 14 and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. 15 While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them, 16 but their eyes were kept from recognizing him. 17 And he said to them, “What are you discussing with each other while you walk along?” They stood still, looking sad. 18 Then one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem who does not know the things that have taken place there in these days?” 19 He asked them, “What things?” They replied, “The things about Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, 20 and how our chief priests and leaders handed him over to be condemned to death and crucified him. 21 But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things took place. 22 Moreover, some women of our group astounded us. They were at the tomb early this morning, 23 and when they did not find his body there they came back and told us that they had indeed seen a vision of angels who said that he was alive. 24 Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they did not see him.” 25 Then he said to them, “Oh, how foolish you are and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have declared! 26 Was it not necessary that the Messiah should suffer these things and then enter into his glory?” 27 Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them the things about himself in all the scriptures.
If you need some guidance or support, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com
Key Idea of the Sermon
On Easter Sunday we studied the resurrection story according to John. We marveled at Mary Magdalene’s devotion, not only keeping vigil at the cross while Jesus died but also coming to his tomb before dawn to mourn. Her devotion is rewarded by being the first one to see the Risen Jesus and the first one to bear witness to the resurrection. Today we are shifting to Luke’s telling of Easter, following this narrative to Pentecost Sunday on May 24. The story of the walk to Emmaus is prominent in Luke’s narrative. Two disciples are leaving Jerusalem in the wake of Jesus’ death and the story of Jesus’ empty tomb. Unsure of what it all means, they are joined by one they do not recognize who shines a light of understanding on the recent events that confused and troubled them. This story suggests that the understanding we seek is available in relationship with the Risen One who walks with us through life.
Questions for Reflection
• A failure to recognize the Risen One is a theme in the stories of Jesus’ resurrection. Have you had an experience that in retrospect was an encounter with the Risen Jesus? What was the gift or blessing of that encounter? How did it change you?
• In the 17th verse of this story, the two disciples are described like this: “They stood still, looking sad.” The Risen Jesus is able to get us moving in a hopeful direction. What has you stuck and sad right now? How is Jesus calling you forward?
A Spiritual Practice to Try
As you walk through each day this week keep your heart open and your attention alert to Jesus’ companionship. Stay mindful of signs of new life and fresh perspectives and follow that way.
If you need some guidance or support, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com
