But we had hoped

Now on that same day two (disciples) were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing him. And he said to them, “What are you discussing with each other while you walk along?” They stood still, looking sad. 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?” 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, and how our chief priests and leaders handed him over to be condemned to death and crucified him. 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. Moreover, some women of our group astounded us. They were at the tomb early this morning, 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. 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.” Then he said to them, “Oh, how foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have declared! Was it not necessary that the Messiah should suffer these things and then enter into his glory?” ~ Luke 24:13-26


Hope begins in the dark. ~ Anne Lamott


The very least you can do in your life is to figure out what you hope for.  And the most you can do is live inside that hope. Not admire it from a distance, but live right in it ~ Barbara Kingsolver




But we had hoped...

Hope does begin in the dark, but it can be tempting sometimes to stay in the dark.

Why do we do that?

Is it because we don't want to feel foolish if dreams aren't realized?

Is it because it seems to be just a fleeting thing?

How quickly did these disciples give up hope? Their hope is in the past tense. They heard from the women that the tomb was empty just as the women had said, and yet here they were, walking away from Jerusalem and putting it all behind them.

I can't be quick to judge these disciples though, who still didn't live in hope at first even as the Risen Christ was before them.

Because dashed hopes and dreams can be a powerful de-motivator.

Because I've found times in my life where it seemed "realistic" not to hope anymore.

And yet even in the worst times - even in the moments where hope seems to be gone, the Risen Christ gives me a reason to continue to hope. 

Living in hope does not mean being unrealistic. I means instead being open. 

Open to a new way of being. Open to life that comes even when it seems as if dreams are dashed.


Prayer: Lord, I had hoped. And I hope. And I will hope. Help me to be open to all that you hope for me. Amen