7th Oct 2022 - Despondency

Caravaggio’s ‘Supper at Emmaus’* is a favourite painting. The dramatic moment when two disciples recognise the risen Christ breaking bread. Their walk offers a metaphor for Christian life.** Two disheartened disciples, believing their hopes dashed, set off home. Dashed hopes can lead to despondency; literally to give up one’s soul. The Church Fathers prayed for God’s deliverance from despondency, recognising that it dilutes enthusiasm and drains energy.