God of love and peace, may there be peace on the earth and may there be peace in the life of this dear reader; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from Luke 24: 13 That same day two of them were walking to the village Emmaus, about seven miles out of Jerusalem. 14 They were deep in conversation, going over all these things that had happened. 15 In the middle of their talk and questions, Jesus came up and walked along with them. 16 But they were not able to recognize who he was. 17 He asked, "What's this you're discussing so intently as you walk along?" (The Message).
This is part of this Sunday's Gospel reading for the Lectionary. The entire text will be discussed in portions for it is a profound text and the retreat for spiritual leaders that our church uses has had profound impact on and in the lives of so many. We'll talk about the retreat later, for now we'll discuss the setting of the scriptural passage. It is Easter Sunday and it's getting late. Of the followers of Jesus, these two decide it is best to return to their home in Emmaus, which lies about seven miles outside of Jerusalem. It is not believed these two were part of the original twelve, but of the group that slowly grew to about 125. The excitement and confusion, not to mention the fear, is what drove these men outside of the city. They may have felt it was safer for them outside of Jerusalem so off they went to regroup and rest. Their conversation was, of course, on the events of the weekend, from the arrest, trial, and crucifixion of Jesus. They also knew that "the women" had shared with them news of their own, that they had seen the Risen Jesus. It's in the middle of this deep conversation that the Risen Lord appears to them and walked along with them. This was common in those times to join up with travelers on the road; safety in numbers and companionship, made for a better walk. But for some reason they could not recognize who this person is walking with them, and the question he asks makes them wonder even more about themselves and their own future, so they did not immediately know this was Jesus. Much has been made about this, that they could not recognize Jesus. Some has said it is because it is faster to walk looking ahead rather than each other (please share that with those drivers who cannot drive and talk without staring at their passengers everytime they make a point!); others believed they had been crying so much their eyes were in no shape to truly recognize others, especially the one for whom one cried. And some said this was the very reason: You don't leave a funeral and expect the "guest of honor" to be among those going home with you.
Whatever the reason, Jesus comes into their midst as He does ours. Jesus has an interest and a desire to know our thoughts and actions and especially those that trouble and disturb us. His appearance in the midst of these two men comes at a critical point in their life and faith as a way to reassure them that He was indeed alive and there for them. I don't know about you, but Jesus sure has come to my side during times I have needed Him most. He comes not to disturb, but to comfort and console. Jesus comes with power to bless and protect, and I welcome Jesus' presence all the time.
What are you thinking about this morning? Do you need a visit from Jesus? Just call Him.
PRAYER: Thank You, Lord, for Your presence always with me, especially those times I have needed You most. Amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
