45 Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,
Did you ever study Geometry? Maybe there’s another subject or procedure that you found difficult to understand. We can learn all the rules, but until we actually see how they work, we don’t get it.
When I was beginning to learn how to use a computer, the person trying to teach me said that you just to this and then that and it will work. Then he left, and I had no idea about what he had just said. I needed step by step instruction while I did the work.
Jesus has told the apostles that he would suffer, die and rise again. They didn’t understand. They had been taught about the Messiah and what was written about him in the Scriptures, but they still didn’t recognize Jesus as the Messiah. Now, Jesus sat with them and reminded them of everything he had told them. He also pointed out the passages in Scripture that referred to him so that they would be able to teach others.
After all, you can’t teach what you don’t understand. I can’t point out all of the passages in the prophets or the psalms that refer to Jesus, although I do know some of the ones from Micah, Isaiah, and the psalms, especially psalm 22.
Once reminded, I’m sure the apostles could see the connections. Jesus knew that it was a lot to grasp at once and for that reason he had promised to send the Holy Spirit to help them. We, too, have the Holy Spirit to help us to understand the teachings of Jesus.
All we need is to call upon him as Jesus tells us.
Lord, you knew that the apostles still needed guidance if they were to understand that Jesus was in fact the Messiah. He helped them by opening their minds and hearts to the Scriptures so that they could help us understand and believe. For all this, we are grateful. Amen.
