Speak From the Heart

And He said to them, "What are these words that you are exchanging with one another as you are walking?" And they stood still, looking sad. One of them, named Cleopas, answered and said to Him, "Are You the only one visiting Jerusalem and unaware of the things which have happened here in these days?" And He said to them, "What things?" 

Luke 24:17-19a

On the road to Emmaus, two followers of Jesus are walking and discussing all that had taken place in Jerusalem regarding the Lord's arrest and crucifixion. Jesus comes along side of them and listens to their conversation, miraculously keeping them from recognizing Him. Can you imagine what went through the Savior's mind when Cleopas asked Him if He was "the only one visiting Jerusalem and unaware of the things which have happened here in these days?" Jesus must have smiled to Himself over that question. He certainly knew what had gone on over those three days! Still, He wants them to share what is on their hearts. This is the loving kindness of our Lord. He always wants us to speak to Him from our hearts.

Authentic Sacrifice

"For every beast of the forest is Mine,

The cattle on a thousand hills."

Psalm 50:10

God is in need of nothing. Everything in the earth belongs to Him. Everything we lay claim to originated from Him. If we are blessed with much, it is because the Lord graciously has given to us from His storehouse. So if we offer up to God are valuables, what is that? For after all, they already belong to Him. But if we offer up to God our hearts, fully surrendered and devoted to Him, how much more of a true sacrifice that is. What we do with our hearts is our decision. That is the free will that God has allowed us to have. This is not to say we should not tithe, or be charitable with our money. But authentic sacrifice to God begins with a heart that is in love with Him. If we do not love Him, then our sacrifice is meaningless.