He (Jesus) asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?”
They stood still, their faces downcast.
“Are you the only one living in Jerusalem who doesn’t know
the things that have happened there in these days?”
Luke 24:17-18 (NIV)
Two of Jesus’ followers were traveling to Emmaus. As they walked along, they discussed Jesus’ recent crucifixion and burial. They were disheartened at what appeared to be a pointless, senseless death. They had placed their hopes and political aspirations on Jesus, believing He was the Messiah who had come to rescue Israel. Now their hopes were shattered, their aspirations for political freedom smashed to smithereens.
Hope is the motivating force that keeps us going. Without hope, we tend to give up. Without hope, we lose direction and impetus. Without hope, we lack a reason to carry on.
This leads us to two conclusions: either our trials are pointless and just curveballs life throws our way, or our trials have a purpose. If we believe God is sovereign, that He is a loving Heavenly Father, then we must also believe He will not allow us to endure senseless trials. This leaves us with that one remaining truth: God has a purpose for every struggle.
For the two men walking along the road to Emmaus, what would appear to be their greatest loss turned out to be their greatest gain. Their hope was dashed by Jesus’ crucifixion. Yet, days later, their hope was rekindled through Christ’s resurrection. History’s greatest tragedy became history’s greatest triumph. Calvary turned what was intended to be satan’s victory into God’s victory. From pointless to purposeful, that’s God’s specialty.