It seems that most of our conversations these days revolve around the ways our lives have been disrupted and how we are coping with this ever-changing reality. We read about the latest virus models, possible vaccines, and government guidelines. We check the stock market and participate in yet another virtual meeting. In the midst of all of this uncertainty, many of us are asking, “What is God up to?” I hear that question often, as if we were under the illusion that these types of events should be comprehensible to us. Our rationalist minds believe we can accept only that which we can readily explain. So in a time like this one, we are left frustrated and disappointed. This is not the 2020 we expected God to provide.
After the crucifixion of Jesus, two of his followers were talking about what had happened. The scripture tells us that they were “downcast,” which would be an understatement! They had placed all of their hopes in Jesus, believing that He was the long-awaited One who would change their lives. However, He had ended up like all the others who had challenged Rome. In their disappointment, I am sure they were wondering, “What is God up to?”
In this moment, Jesus met them: “Their eyes were opened and they recognized him.” He heard their disappointment and revealed Himself to them in a way that surpassed their expectation. It wasn’t what they hoped for — it was infinitely more.