When Jesus Shows Up in Sad Times

Read the Story

That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and they were talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing him. — Luke 24:13-16

Question 1: Have You Ever Been Really Disappointed?

The two disciples walking to Emmaus were super sad and confused. They thought Jesus was going to be a powerful king who would fix everything, but instead He died on a cross. Their hopes were crushed. They were so disappointed they couldn't even recognize Jesus when He walked right beside them!

Think about a time when something didn't turn out the way you expected. Maybe you didn't make the team, or a friend moved away, or something you were excited about got cancelled. How did that disappointment feel? What did you do when you felt that way?

Question 2: Where Is Jesus When You're Sad?

The sermon reminded us that Jesus meets us in our sad times. Even when the disciples were confused and heartbroken, Jesus came and walked with them. He didn't leave them alone.

The Bible tells us: > The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. — Psalm 34:18

When you're sad or confused, do you remember that Jesus is close to you? What are some ways you can talk to Jesus about your feelings? (Prayer, reading the Bible, talking to a trusted adult about God?)

Question 3: Do You Really Know Who Jesus Is?

The disciples thought they understood who Jesus was — they called Him a prophet. But Jesus is so much more! He's the Son of God, the Savior of the world, the One who defeated death. Because they misunderstood who Jesus really was, they missed seeing God's amazing plan.

What are some things you know about Jesus? Is He just a good teacher, or is He more than that? How does knowing Jesus is the risen Savior (not just a prophet or good person) change how you think about your problems?

Question 4: Can You See the Blessings Right in Front of You?

The sermon said something important: the disciples were so sad and had their eyes so covered with tears and confusion that they missed the blessing standing right in front of them — Jesus Himself!

Sometimes when we're upset, we focus so much on what went wrong that we can't see the good things God is doing. What are three blessings in your life right now that you can thank God for, even when things are hard?

Question 5: How Does the Bible Help When You're Confused?

After Jesus walked with the disciples, He explained the Scriptures to them — He showed them what the Bible said about the Messiah. When they finally understood, their hearts 'burned within them' and their hope came back!

When you don't understand what God is doing, where can you look for answers? How can reading the Bible help you see who Jesus really is and what He's doing in your life? This week, try reading one of the Psalms when you feel sad or confused (like Psalm 34 or Psalm 147) and see how God's Word encourages you.