Luke appears to be doing for Theo here, what the producers of LOST do randomly for us, doing a recap of the closing events of the Gospels, which sets a good pattern for storytellers, as we by nature, being flawed people, so often FORGET.

Jesus did the same thing in recapping scriptures with his friends, (not yet revealing himself as he was, merely playing the part of a narrator at that time), so that they could be caused to REMEMBER.

Memory serves ( see this link for a great commentary on memory - http://szamko.gnn.tv/blogs/12284/the_Purpose_of_memory_in_our_dying_societies ) as a SUPPORT STRUCTURE, that can promote both faith and doubt. But in this case, Jesus rebuilds their faith by reconstructing the past through their MEMORY, as Jews, of the scriptures, and points them to the present reality, causing them to not only believe intellectually, but also causing their hearts to "burn within them", to use their own words.

I am just beginning to understand, after hearing pastor John Lindell ( see the messages at JamesRiver.org ) teach through Luke, what that means, but only in part. And yet, with the Holy Spirit/Jesus' promise, it is enough, to cause my eyes to well with tears, as I re-read the account of his sharing along the road, and over the meal...my minds eye begins to work and I see Jesus asking for some food to eat...as I see their faces change from purposeless sorrow to an inexpressible incredulity, and from that to full fledged belief.

Memory can play a powerful role in our lives for ill and for good.

In this case, while I do not have the luxury the friends of Jesus day had, through the aid of the Spirit and His Word, second hand memories have become powerful enough for me to believe.

I guess all this to say, that if you are struggling with faith and hope, then go back to the beginning. Remember. Let the Holy Spirit, His Word and your memory rebuild your faith.

Thank you Father for Jesus. Your Spirit. And your servant Luke...for empowering us and calling us to 'recall'. Bless, anoint and empower our memories to serve us and others in Jesus' name. Amen.

Acts 1:1-14