April 3, 2024
The Octave of Easter
Reassurances
…he was made known to them in the breaking of the bread.
Luke 24:35

Reassurance can come in big moments: We breathe a sigh of relief when we see that a plane has safely landed or someone gets a job. When worried about a health issue, a clear diagnosis—even if it’s not what we hope for—brings clarity at least.

It can come in small ways too. A glance, a touch on the arm can be assurances of care and love. The scent of dinner on the stove or bread out of the oven as we come home after a long day away assures us that we are not alone.

Jesus’ friends had experienced such turmoil and grief at this death. It was truly unbelievable that he would once again stand among them. Was this real? Were they seeing a ghost? In such a simple way—breaking bread together—he reassures them that, yes, he is with them.

Jesus, open my eyes to the reassuring signs of your presence throughout my day.

- Amy Welborn

Acts 3:1-10 • Psalm 105:1-4, 6-9 • Luke 24:13-35
Communion elements, sunset. Photo by R. Gina Santa Maria | stock.adobe.com
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Comments

April 3, 2024 at 07:59 PM

*** Yes, Jesus broke bread with these two disciples and opened their eyes in Luke 24:30-31a, " He (Jesus) joined them (the two disciples) at the table. Then He took bread and gave thanks. He broke it and began to give it to them. Their eyes were opened, and they recognized Him!" *** But even before the breaking of the bread, their hearts burn when Jesus explained Scriptures to them in Luke 24:32, "They said to each other, “Didn’t our hearts burn within us as He talked with us on the road and explained the Scriptures to us?” *** You see...Jesus is the Bread of Life and the Word Himself! John 6:35, "Then Jesus said, “I AM the bread of life. Whoever comes to Me will never go hungry. And whoever believes in Me will never be thirsty." John 1:1, 14, "In the beginning, the Word was already there. The Word was with God, and the Word was God...The Word became a human being. He made His home with us. We have seen His glory. It is the glory of the One and Only, Who came from the Father. And the Word was full of grace and truth!" ******* Here is what else Jesus said in Matthew 4:4, "Jesus answered, “It is written, ‘Man must not live only on bread. He must also live on every Word that comes from the mouth of God.’ ” (Deuteronomy 8:3) *** Hebrews 4:12, "The Word of God is alive and active. It is sharper than any sword that has two edges. It cuts deep enough to separate soul from spirit. It can separate bones from joints. It judges the thoughts and purposes of the heart!" *** 2 Timothy 3:16-17, "God has breathed life into all Scripture. It is useful for teaching us what is true. It is useful for correcting our mistakes. It is useful for making our lives whole again. It is useful for training us to do what is right. By using Scripture, the servant of God can be completely prepared to do every good thing!" *** Matthew 24:35, "Heaven and earth will pass away. But My Words will never pass away!" ******* Amen ✝️

April 3, 2024 at 10:36 AM

Amen. :)

April 3, 2024 at 09:52 AM

Thank you for your wonderful reflection this morning. I spent time with my grandson who has Autism and we shared several hours together. In that time I saw Jesus right in front of me.His Homebound teacher came to give him his schoolwork for the day and his behavior just astonished me. He was courteous, considerate, engaging , attentive. It was a very emotional moment for me, spilling with love for my Grandchild who’s had a tough road getting to where he is now. Our Lord Jesus is in him and I pray for all the children and adults who have learning difficulties and who struggle every day of their lives with their differences. Lifting all the LFF and those they love in prayer and thank you all for gifts that you share with all of us.

April 3, 2024 at 09:22 AM

Thank you Amy for the "reassuring" reflection. I love how you relate everyday life to the scriptures. I get my grandson for a sleepover tomorrow and he loves to see granma in the kitchen cooking! I think I'll make his favorite rolls. A beautiful and blessed day with continued prayers for all LFF. Sandy

April 3, 2024 at 09:06 AM

Amen! Thank You for this reading.

April 3, 2024 at 08:43 AM

Amy thank you for the image of Jesus being there in so many ways. Some days it's hard to see him when we are flooded in sorrow. I will think of your image of the bread and each time bread is baking will be a gentle reminder of his love. Thank you I so needed this. Prayers for Ignacios mother being laid to rest and prayers all those lost souls out there looking for guidance. Blessings to all the LFF especially those needing an extra hand of help and love these days. May we all spread Gods love throughout the world each and everyday.

peggyR
April 3, 2024 at 08:39 PM

Many prayers being sent as Ignacio’s mother is laid to rest. May Our Lord give her family the Love and Comfort only He can render as they grieve her loss.

Amy Welborn
April 3, 2024 at 08:46 AM

Thank you for your kind words - and God bless!

April 3, 2024 at 07:04 AM

Amy, beautiful reflection and thank you for sharing. How many times do I not recognize Jesus in all the folks around me and need reassurance!!!! All the time. Asking for prayers for the soul of Ignacio’s mother who will be buried today. Sending good recovery vibes to Mike, Lou and Karen. Amen.

peggyR
April 3, 2024 at 08:47 PM

Many prayers of healing going out for Mike, Lou and Karen. May they feel the warmth and comfort of Our Lord as they continue their journey of complete recovery.

April 3, 2024 at 07:00 AM

Lord please hear our prayers and bring your light to all those suffering in Baltimore with the Bridge collapse, Haiti, the Middle East, Ukraine, Russia, the Sudan, and all those suffering around the world - also for their strength, courage and resilience to continue walking in faith. Send them your light. Father in Heaven, have mercy on us and on the whole world! You sent Your Son, the Prince of Peace, for the salvation of the world. We pray that the Peace of Christ will reign in Haiti, the Middle East, Ukraine, Russia and Sudan. Please protect and send aid to those in need and all who are at-risk. We pray for peace and rebuilding– we who are working towards it and for all those who are suffering or in danger from conflicts. We pray for an end to violence and war – we pray for wisdom for all leaders who have a hand in this. Lord God please help those in most need of thy mercy. Amen.

April 3, 2024 at 05:24 AM

The breaking of bread lead them to Jesus.

Communion elements, sunset. Photo by R. Gina Santa Maria | stock.adobe.com
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