I had hoped for more from last month's General Conference. I had hoped that the call for unity would enable us to honor Jesus' call that we all be one rather than any "us" and "them."  I had hoped that conferencing together would model holiness in conversation rather than divisive rhetoric to a broken world. I had hoped that united in one mission we could overcome divides of language, culture, and theology. I had hoped that the General Conference could mirror the strength of local congregations where congregants hold many different, and sometimes opposing, views about any number of theological, political, and social issues and yet are united in following Jesus to make disciples and serve the least, offering hope and healing.  I had hoped that the United Methodist Church would emerge more connected rather than more fractured. 

I realize that my litany of "had hoped" echoes the words in Luke 24:21. On the road to Emmaus Cleopas and another disciple encounter another traveler with whom they share their hopes and disappointments and perplexities and even wonder. The traveler challenges their assumptions and conclusions and present sense of hopelessness. When the traveler breaks bread at table, they suddenly recognize him as Jesus crucified and risen.