April 19 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 19, 2026
Scripture Reading: Luke 24:28-35
Sermon: Stay With Us
Luke 24:28-35
28 As they came near the village to which they were going, he walked ahead as if he were going on. 29 But they urged him strongly, saying, “Stay with us, because it is almost evening and the day is now nearly over.” So he went in to stay with them. 30 When he was at the table with them, he took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. 31 Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him, and he vanished from their sight. 32 They said to each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was opening the scriptures to us?” 33 That same hour they got up and returned to Jerusalem, and they found the eleven and their companions gathered together. 34 They were saying, “The Lord has risen indeed, and he has appeared to Simon!” 35 Then they told what had happened on the road and how he had been made known to them in the breaking of the bread.
Key Idea of the Sermon
Today we complete the Easter Day story of the Walk to Emmaus recorded by Luke. Two downcast disciples who cannot make sense of the death of Jesus followed by the report of his resurrection, are joined by Jesus unaware as they walk to Emmaus. This “stranger” brings understanding about the Biblical truth of the ministry of Messiah, the anointed servant-leader of God. Once at their destination, the two plead with their companion to “stay with us”. He accepts the invitation and is made known to them as the Risen Jesus as they break bread. Immediately, the two disciples return to Jerusalem to bear witness to the resurrection, a common response of those who recognize the presence of the Risen One.
Questions for Reflection
• The two disciples describe the feeling of learning from Jesus unaware as “our hearts burning within us”. When have you had such an experience? What is the Risen Jesus teaching you these days?
• The sacrament of Holy Communion suggests by its name an experience of unity with the Divine. What impact does the Lord’s Supper have on you?
• How do you bear witness to the presence of the Risen Jesus in your life?
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
