Please read Luke 24:13-35.
The road to Emmaus is such a powerful story. As we read it from our vantage point, we know that it is Jesus himself walking with the two. We get the joy of anticipating the moment when the two walking realize who it is who is with them, as if we are in on the surprise with Jesus. Each moment with Jesus has added up – the way he listened to their grief and anguish, the way he interpreted scripture, the way he broke and blessed bread – until their eyes were opened and they got it!
It isn’t hard for us to imagine being surprised by God, too, is it? How often have we looked back on an event in our lives and so clearly seen where God was at work when in the moment we felt we were floundering? As we continue to celebrate the resurrected Christ among us, I wonder if you can relate to these men walking along. Today as you read the scripture I invite you to reflect on these questions as one walking on the road.
When have you been surprised by Christ’s presence?
When have your eyes been opened to the possibility of God at work in your life?
When have you experienced God through a word, silence, a meal, or a conversation?
When have you recognized, without a doubt, that you have not been abandoned by God?
May our eyes be opened to the resurrected Christ in our midst, and may we keep our hearts open to the possibility of new life here and now.
In Joy, Pastor Ruth
Let us pray:
God of mercy, we no longer look for Jesus among the dead, for he is alive and has become the Lord of life. Increase in our minds and hearts the risen life we share with Christ, and help us to grow as your people toward the fullness of eternal life with you, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.