The Jesus Burn

Heartburn is real. Most of us, at some time, have experienced it. It’s no fun. No fun at all.

So I find it intriguing that there is a heart burn for which I currently yearn. This burn is different though. It’s been experienced before, but not by me. I sense it is immensely powerful. It must be, because simply reading about it has instilled in me a desire for it.

The gospel historian Luke writes of how two disciples are traveling by foot, on the road between Jerusalem and Emmaeus. It appears they are discussing events surrounding the death and resurrection of Jesus. Jesus appears, but they don’t realize its him, for “their eyes were kept from recognizing him” (Luke 24:16). His inquiry into their conversation amazes them, given the buzz going around Jerusalem. Still, unbeknownst to them, they are conversing with the resurrected Christ. So they offer him a dinner invite and he accepts. Luke says, “When he was at table with them, he took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him; and he vanished from their sight” (vv. 30-31).

And then comes the recognition of The Jesus Burn. The two express to each other the mutual burn that came with their time with Jesus. “Did not or hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?” (v. 32).

Their walk with Jesus formed in them both a burning sensation in their hearts. What a wonderful testament to their experience with the Christ.

Scripture tells us that Christ dwells in our hearts (Ephesians 3:17). Does his presence in your heart create a similar burning sensation? There have been times when I’ve sensed his nearness, but I long for his burn. I hope you will to!