Apostolic Friends Forum - Acts 29:20 The Table of the Eternal Spirit

You may not think that this belongs in this part of AFF but please humor me and read before making a judgement. Thank-you.

The Journey To Emmaus
by: Rhonda R. Cyprus

On January 17, 2008 and I was invited to join a group of believers who had previously experienced God's mercy and grace on their own personal journey to Emmaus with Jesus Christ. It was there I met others who had been with Jesus and experienced his mercy, grace, and love as none but the recipient can know.

As I contemplated on my overwhelming experience, and read all the letters of encourgement and blessing; I felt so blessed, honored, and pampered by Jesus through all my family, friends, and acquaintances.

This may sound silly to some, and maybe a little narcissitic, but I always wonder what people think about all the tragedies and trials I have faced. I have gotten to the point that I am afraid to tell my stories because I don't want people to think of me as being a victim, or paranoid.

The ironic thing is, when listening to the experiences of others, I was humbled, and feeling quite ridiculous for all my belly-aching, and complaining. There are stories in other peoples lives that I could not bear or live through as they have. I didn't know whether to cry for them, or be happy for me. I was torn between repulsion and compassion.

The thing that I realized, in my soul-searching, was that I am not what I thought I was. What I mean is: I have always considered myself, strong, capable, maybe even a little invincible if you would. But the truth hit me square in the face:I am weak, I am vulnerable, and I need God.

As I realized the enormity of my mistake, I felt the peace of God sweep over my soul. He said, "My grace is sufficient for thee." I nailed the facade of me to the cross, supped with him at the communion table, and was humbled as he washed my feet.

To me...this was deep. The deep waters of my soul were troubled and the peace of his word calmed my storm.

In His Grip...and service,
Rhonda R. Cyprus