photo copy: Rembrandt
As a part of an International blogging event, By Invitation Only, hosted by the fabulous Marsha at Splendrosa we were asked...
"Let's name the thing/person/place we've always wanted to experience, but haven't.
Dream that money is no object.
Tell the WORLD what you've always wanted to do or wish you could do, but just haven't done it yet."
What a fabulous prompt!!!!
And here is my answer...
My Emmaus Road!
Recently, a group of friends and I took a field trip to the Philadelphia Museum Of Art to view Rembrandt's Faces Of Jesus exhibit.
For me, this was a profoundly personal pilgrimage of sorts.
Not only did I marvel at the small realistic masterpieces.. The Faces Of Jesus...
photo copy: Rembrandt
But I was also captivated by Rembrandt's artistic renderings of
The Road To Emmaus
photo copy: Rembrandt
Rembrandt's inspiration comes from a story in the bible (Luke 24:13-36)
The historical event goes...
Two of Jesus' disciples are walking on the road to Emmaus coming from Jerusalem, about a 7 mile walk. It has been a few harrowing and life altering days for these men.
Jesus, who had been crucified just 3 days earlier, meet the men on the road to Emmaus and they (by divine design) do not recognize Him. As they walk together, the disciples begin to tell their fellow traveler about recent events in their lives.
These disciples have much to say! For many things have happened that they did not expect and cannot explain! The disciples are sad and confused and probably afraid! They talk about Jesus the Nazarene... their Rabbi... the ONE they thought might be the Messiah. I can just hear them as they broken heartedly tell this travel companion how their Master was falsely accused, arrested and crucified. He was dead... along with all of their hopes and dreams. In fact, they reveal, earlier that very day some other disciples had found Jesus' tomb empty... and there was a report of an appearance by an angel! They just don't understand it all!
Jesus, after hearing their tale, admonishes the men because they are slow to believe all that they learned their whole lives... since they were just little boys... for this was all written about in the Torah and the books of the Prophets. Had they only really looked, or only really believed it they would have not been confused or sad!
As Jesus continues to walk with the men he lovingly teaches them again "beginning with Moses and with all the prophets" and "He explains to them the things CONCERNING HIMSELF in ALL the Scriptures". (Like 24:27)
The two men are captivated by the wisdom this new friend is revealing! They urge Jesus to stay and dine with them as it is getting time for supper. I can imagine the soul-attraction these men feel for Jesus and the thrill in their hearts as The Light Of The World enlightens the Scripture for them! The Torah (meaning: God's light) illuminated by it's Author! But still they do not know it is Him!
Jesus does stay with them for dinner. Can you see the three of them reclining at a table... the disciples are hungry and weary but spiritually on fire? Jesus takes the bread that has been served. He blesses it in traditional Jewish form and gives it to the men. Three days ago He had done the same thing. These very men were with Him at the Passover feast just hours before His death. They were with Him for... His last supper!
The men instantly recognize Him! And now the risen Jesus vanishes!
And they astonishingly say to one another with overwhelming joy, " Were not our hearts burning within us while He was speaking to us on the road, while He was explaining the Scripture to us?" (Luke 24:32) While Jesus was speaking the words of Truth and Life their hearts (mind, will, emotion, intellect) were burning with agreement, understanding and belief!
This is not the end of THE STORY~ To read this story and the end, click HERE. It is a page-turner, a life saver!
Rembrandt was so enthralled by this bible story! It became a reoccurring theme in his paintings, sketching and etchings.
photo copy: Rembrandt
photo copy: Rembrandt
photo copy: Rembrandt
I too am fascinated! Not only by Rembrandt's beautiful and varied depictions of the road to Emmaus event. I am profoundly moved by the thought of Jesus LITERALLY walking His disciples through His very own words... the Bible... and teaching them HIMSELF...FACE TO FACE!
Most of you know me as a blogger who spends much time having a lot to say about my home, StoneGable. I love blogging and my home. but what many of you don't know is that blogging... nor StoneGable is the passion of my life. Not even close!
I am a devoted disciple of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I KNOW HIM! REALLY!
And I am a student, a learner of His Word. I have the extreme blessing of teaching His Word, as well. THAT is the real passion of my life!
So, when Marsha asked:
"Name the thing/person/place we've always wanted to experience, but haven't.
Dream that money is no object.
Tell the WORLD what you've always wanted to do or wish you could do. but just haven't done it yet."
I knew right away! This is what I wish, no... what I want...
I want to meet Jesus on my road to Emmaus and have Him teach me, face to face! I want to see his nail-pierced hand gestures... feel the warmth of his smile... notice the color of His eyes...mark his gait and keep in step with Him as we walk. I want to start with Genesis and have Him teach me right through Revelation!
I want to hear His voice. The voice I have been inwardly perceptive of and following for decades. I most of all want to hear Him laugh!
I want to sit and dine with Him. I want to be there when He reminds me of His New Covenant through the symbolic breaking of bread. I want my eyes to be opened... I want to see!
I want my heart to burn, as it does now... but I yearn to go deeper! I want more belief, more knowledge, more understanding, more desire to be worthy of the name disciple!
I want to worship Him... to tell Him how totally He, and He alone has completely changed my life.. face to face!
This is the experience I "wish for". No money can buy it. It is so extravagant and beyond all treasure. But it is a free gift to me... and to you! REALLY!
And this is the amazing thing... I KNOW for sure that this WILL happen some day! I hope before I leave this earthly body, but if not I am certain it will happen the second my I meet HIM face to face~ the very instant my time here is done!
It has been promised to me by Jesus in His own words!
Will you join me... be the other one on that Road To Emmaus?
I am participating in By Invitation Only at Splenderosa's. Please visit as other participants answer this question!
Thank you for sharing this wonderful post! Thanking Him for you and all you do.
ReplyDeleteOh, Yvonne, that has always been one of my favorite stories in the Bible. How I would have loved to be there to witness this event. I, too, would love to spend time face to face with Jesus. To hear him laugh, watch his movements, and see all of his facial expressions. I can only imagine how special that will be one day. Thanks for sharing your passion with your readers! Carla
ReplyDeleteThis is truly an inspiring post! xo
ReplyDeleteThank you! A wonderful post, so pleased you were invited to the By Invitation Only event!
ReplyDeleteDarling Yvonne, I know this story and Rembrandt's works well (degree in Art History) and I simply cannot tell you how your post has filled my heart with admiration and respect for you and what you stand for. I am truly humbled today. It is an honor to know you as my friend, you are what mankind is supposed to be about. Thank you, again, for being a part of our little group, By Invitation Only.
ReplyDeleteLove.....
Yvonne, please go over to see Lene @ The Essence of the Good Life, she's always been on board, but it's her 1st time posting (she battling recurring cancer). Her post is stunning.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful post, Yvonne. I could not help but think of Steve Jobs' final words as retold by his sister. Face to face with the glory?
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your heart of the most magnificant gift. A priceless treasure that is ours for free. You've brightened my day.
ReplyDeleteWe are sisters then ;-). I love to imagine what that day was like and to be there and hear all that Jesus told them would have been mind blowing. I love spending time with him, but to see him face to face will be something else.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful and profoundly inspiring post...THank you...it brought a lot of joy and gratitude to my heart...
ReplyDeleteBeautiful...my eyes were brimming with tears as I read this as that is my heart's desire too. I love that song, "I can only Imagine" because it so perfectly captures the fact that any of our earthly understanding of how Christ is only scratches the surface of what awaits us! Thank you so much for sharing those amazing paintings with us, but more importantly, thank you for sharing your love for our Savior with us! :-)
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Vanessa
What a beautiful post, Yvonne! How remarkable that Rembrandt was able to share his passion for Christ in his life's work. Thank you for sharing this fascinating story.
ReplyDeleteI'll be on that road with you! I know HIM, I love HIM and He and only HE changed my life forever! Amen!
ReplyDeleteCarol
Hallelujah Sister....God will bless you for wanting to know Him better. He is a rewarder to those who diligently seek Him.
ReplyDeleteI'm already on the walk......you won't be disappointed.
d
Some sweet day by His grace...we shall see Jesus face to face....
ReplyDeleteYou have a beautiful blog, home, and tablesettings, but they pale in comparison to your humility and love. I think the light of Jesus shines right through you - like a stained glass window.
ReplyDeleteHugs,
lisa
Hallelujah!! Walking with you, sister! Thank you for this inspiring challenge to deepen our walk!
ReplyDeleteA sister in Christ! What a blessing to know that not only are you a wonderful hostess at Stone Gable but that you proclaim your love for our Lord! It makes me love to visit your blog even more. I, too, long for the day to sit at His feet and listen to His voice. Some day soon.......
ReplyDeleteYour sister in Christ,
Mary
Yvonne,
ReplyDeleteYou manage to get your message across in such a wonderful way whether you are talking about your lovely home or your lovely faith. Yes, that too is what I strive for. The words to the hymn "just a closer walk with thee" are going through my mind right now.
Wonderful and inspiring post ... you have a way with words that reaches deep into the heart. Thank you ... Blessings, Ann
ReplyDeleteI, too, am walking with you, Yvonne! That was an inspirational post that reached me to my soul!
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your beautiful post, Yvonne. I have heard the story and the passages before, but really enjoyed your post combined with the paintings.
ReplyDeleteAmen! Oh to be like Him!!!!
ReplyDeleteLucy
Your post is such a blessing and testimony of your love for Jesus and I truly appreciate your sharing your faith here. I too, am a follower of Jesus and long for the day when I can see him face to face. Some day we shall see Him together. Thank you and God bless you richly. Love and Hugs, Pamela
ReplyDeleteAnother absolutely beautiful post! I hope my mansion is next to yours when we get to heaven!
ReplyDeleteI've seen some of Rembrandt's depictions of Jesus here at our Milwaukee Art Museum and also, his contemporary, Jan Lieven's paintings of Christ. Truly inspirational.
ReplyDeleteI want the exact same thing...to be close to Jesus!
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Haven
Beautiful words...how proud our Savior must be of you!
ReplyDeleteThis is a day of reflection for many of us. The art work is wonderful but your words are as beautiful. I'd love to join you on the road. Have a great evening. Blessings...Mary
ReplyDeleteOne day we will hear His voice, see His smile and feel His arms around us (there are times I know He is doing that now).. What a lovely treasure to know your reward is by His side as part of His family. thanks for the post! xo marlis
ReplyDeleteYour post is such a blessing and so profoundly beautiful. My desire is to sit at His feet; feel the hem of His garment; to hear Him speak as he has to so many thousands and also in the innermost depths of my heart; to see His hand as they not only touched to heal, but to love and then were marred in the crucifixion.
ReplyDeleteI, too, have accepted His gift. What a joy it is to find a sister in Christ not only in this blog but in many of the blogs that I follow!
I admire you for many things that you do so perfectly but my admiration for you as a devoted follower of Jesus who is not ashamed to say so is tremendous. I believe that people are always watching and when someone with your influence speaks out, it can touch many lives. Isn't it wonderful to realize that we who believe and follow Him are in essence walking the journey together. Thank you,
ReplyDeleteYvonne for this beautiful declaration of your faith.-Shannon
Amen! Yvonne, this is a beautiful post straight from your heart and I so appreciate it. I too, look forward to seeing Jesus face to face. What a day that will be. XO, Mona
ReplyDeleteHow wonderful to read and feel your passion Yvonne...Beautiful images and touching words...xv
ReplyDeleteGod Bless you Dear Yvonne.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful post from a beautiful person.
ReplyDeleteWhat a moving tribute to our Heavenly Father!!! Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteWonderful words!! Before I met you, I would have said that your passion was home decor and cooking. Now that I have met you in real life (and am SO privileged to be a part of your Bible Study!), it is clear that your one true passion is Jesus Christ. No matter how gorgeous your tablescapes and how delicious your cooking, it is your love for Jesus that makes your gift of hospitality shine! You are a blessing to all who know you!
ReplyDeleteThis was beautiful to read and the paintings are so beautiful they're almost overwhelming! Thank you for stopping by my blog and your comment about my Flora Doora bag. Blessings to you,
ReplyDeleteCindy
What a beautiful post.Thank you for sharing these masterpieces and your own testimony of Christ.
ReplyDeleteeven though we don't know each other at all, i've always felt we were kindred spirits. it's lovely to know we are also sisters in Christ. wonderful post.
ReplyDeleteNancy J. here.....Thankyou for sharing your testimony of our dear Savior in this beautiful blog. I too have a strong testimony of Him.
ReplyDeleteI am a new follower to your blog because I love what it is all about...home,cooking and so many good things. Your testimony of HIM makes it even more special to me.
What a profound and inspirational post. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteI am late getting her but want to say GOD BLESS you my friend! The paintings are beautiful and am sure stirred this desire in your heart. I hope you DO get your wish one day! How awesome is your love for Jesus. You are such a special friend. XO, Pinky
ReplyDeleteSuch a great post. I have a book that my parents gave me in high school. The title is something like "Christ and the Fine Arts. It's a great book that I have enjoyed over the years. I even used it as a reference in college when I had to do a paper in an art class. Christ is such an overwhelming influence in so many of the classical artists.
ReplyDeleteBeckie
Nothing would be better than being face to face with Jesus in person! Someday we that believe will get that opportunity..I have always wondered what his physical presence looked like..the painting are wonderful. Thanks for sharing!!
ReplyDeleteMiss Bloomers
What a great post and a blessing to start my day! Thanks. See you in Heaven.
ReplyDeleteSuch a beautiful post!!! And what wonderful comments. It is so wonderful to see all of these wonderful believers sharing together here. I wrote a song many years ago entitled, "Through the Eyes of Faith", and I look forward, one day, to seeing with my own eyes those things that right now I see through eyes of faith. One day when we see Christ!!! What a day that will be!!! God bless you and thank you for sharing this message with us today!!!
ReplyDeleteI have always been intrigued by the Emmaeus Road. I loved this post. I also am a Christian and think it would haver been neat to meet Jesus on the Road. {Powerful post
ReplyDeleteMarge
WE, too are sisters in Christ ...
ReplyDeletethanks sister ...
someday, we ALL will meet
Simply beautiful!!! I love this post and I am so happy that your shared your passion with the rest of us. I am walking along side you.
ReplyDeleteHave a wonderful weekend!
Elizabeth
Yvonne, what a beautiful and moving post. I true know that Christ is constantly there and we will one day meet him face to face and fall on our knees in gratitude and wet his feet with our tears. We will literally touch the wounds he chose to keep as emblems of his sacrifice. I KNOW that this can be accomplished in this life for some and it is the desire of my heart too. You put it so beautifully. Yes, that is what our lives are all about and I too have the opportunity to teach it and to express my testimony of Jesus. It strengthens your desire to teach and to testify. How lovely! I am glad I didn't miss this post.
ReplyDeleteI think my favorite thing about blogging is how my faith in wonderful god fearing women who have stayed married and raised families has grown. The news doesn't focus on us, just the opposite and blogging has given me hope! Love you dearly!
A fabulous wish! And you can BE Jesus for others here by being more like him...isn't that wonderful? Great news. Great post.
ReplyDeleteShine that light!
What a beautiful testimony to our Savior.
ReplyDeleteHi Yvonne...
ReplyDeleteI was just dropping by today to say hello and doing a little catching up at your place...when I came across this post! Well...I just had to leave you a note, dear friend. I thank God for you! And...I thank Him for your "bold" witness!
I accepted Jesus as my personal Savior 31 yrs. ago. I don't know what I would do without Him...He is my everything! Anyway...dear friend...just had to leave you this note...to say thank you! Thank you for sharing your faith with us!!! This post is truly a gift...ohhh, what wondrous blessings that the Lord has in store for you!
Love ya,
Chari
Sometimes I close my eyes and reach up to just touch His face.
ReplyDeleteSaved 31 years ago and madly deeply in love with Our Lord!!
first time to visit your blog.. and boy what a good day to visit!!
Julie
www.equusvilla.blogspot.com
www.ridingaside.blogspot.com
Just came across this blog page today....been following your blog for a year or two. Loved your blog on the road to Emmaus. So good to know you are a sister in Christ. God has placed you here for His purpose. Not only are you a precious sister in Christ but you are so talented in all you do. Truly a blessing! Your blogs are inspirational (in more ways than one!) Julie H from Michigan
ReplyDeleteIjust read this.It is so beautiful.And I feel you mean it with all your heart.I love the story of the Emmaus road.
ReplyDeleteHow they walked with him and Loved him and drank in every word.How they begged him to stay with them.and he made as if he would go on.But the most wonderful part to me is when they said,Did not our hearts burn with in us.Proof that it was Jesus.
I have read your blog and followed you for awhile, but just read this entry for the first time! I sit here weeping at 6 am, amazed at these beautiful words! Thank you for your very bold testimony! May our Lord and Savior continue to bless you and others through you.
ReplyDeleteI'm new to your blog… I came here to read about your White-Washing technique… which I absolutely LOVED! But then I found this, and your videos about Christ… and so much enjoyed them, here in the wee hours of Easter Sunday. This was so beautiful and it, along with both videos, truly brought tears to my eyes. Thank you so much for sharing!
ReplyDeleteYvonne,
ReplyDeleteI just discovered your blog and started to go through your many posts. How delighted was I that I came across this entry--about the very same scripture I read this morning during my quiet time! The Lord works in mysterious ways, His wonders to perform!
I love your beautiful home, but most of all, I admire your beautiful heart. God bless you on this Easter Sunday!