Luke 24:33,35

When the two disciples had reached Emmaus and were refreshing themselves at the evening meal, the mysterious stranger who had so enchanted them on the road took bread and broke it, made himself known to them, and then vanished from their sight. They had urged him to stay with them, because the day was nearly over.

But now, although it was much later, their love was a lamp to their feet and wings as well; they forgot the darkness, their weariness was all gone, and immediately they journeyed back the sixty furlongs to tell the joyful news of a risen Lord, who had appeared to them on the way.

They reached the Christians in Jerusalem and were received by a burst of joyful news before they could tell their own story. These early Christians were all fervent to speak of Christ’s resurrection and to proclaim what they knew of the Lord; they shared their experiences openly.

This evening, let their example impress us deeply. We too must bear our witness concerning Jesus. John’s account of the tomb needed to be supplemented by Peter, and Mary could speak of something further still; combined, we have a full testimony from which nothing can be spared. We each have unique gifts and special manifestations, but the one purpose God has in view is the perfecting of the whole body of Christ.

Therefore, we must bring our spiritual possessions and lay them at the apostle’s feet, and distribute to everyone what God has given to us. Hold back no part of the precious truth, but speak what you know and testify what you have seen. Do not let the toil or darkness, or the possible unbelief of your friends, weigh one moment in the scale. Arise and march to the place of duty, and there tell what great things God has shown to your soul.