Daily Readings - Wed Apr 24 2019
Luke
13That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem,14and they were talking with each other about all these things that had happened.15While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them.16But their eyes were kept from recognizing him.17And he said to them, "What is this conversation that you are holding with each other as you walk?" And they stood still, looking sad.18Then one of them, named Cleopas, answered him, "Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?"19And he said to them, "What things?" And they said to him, "Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, a man who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people,20and how our chief priests and rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him.21But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things happened.22Moreover, some women of our company amazed us. They were at the tomb early in the morning,23and when they did not find his body, they came back saying that they had even seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive.24Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see."25And he said to them, "O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken!26Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?"27And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.28So they drew near to the village to which they were going. He acted as if he were going farther,29but they urged him strongly, saying, "Stay with us, for it is toward evening and the day is now far spent." So he went in to stay with them.30When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it and gave it to them.31And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And he vanished from their sight.32They said to each other, "Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?"33And they rose that same hour and returned to Jerusalem. And they found the eleven and those who were with them gathered together,34saying, "The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!"35Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he was known to them in the breaking of the bread.
Sermon
In today's Gospel, we encounter two disciples on the road to Emmaus, their hearts heavy with grief and confusion following the crucifixion of Jesus. As they walk, they are joined by a stranger who is, unbeknownst to them, the risen Jesus. Their conversation reveals their shattered hopes, as they had believed Jesus to be the Messiah who would redeem Israel. Jesus listens patiently, then opens their eyes to the Scriptures, revealing how his journey of suffering and resurrection was foretold. As they reach Emmaus, Jesus breaks bread with them, and in that moment, they recognize him. He vanishes, leaving them to rush back to Jerusalem, eager to share the news of his resurrection.
This passage is set in the context of the days following the crucifixion, a time of despair and confusion for the disciples. Luke's narrative emphasizes the fulfillment of Scripture, as Jesus himself guides the disciples through the Old Testament, highlighting how his life, death, and resurrection were part of God's plan. The story underscores the importance of faith and understanding through the lens of Scripture, even in moments of darkness.
In our daily lives, we may often feel like these disciples—struggling to recognize God's presence amidst our trials. Yet, just as Jesus walked with them, he is with us, guiding us through life's challenges. The Eucharist, as seen in the breaking of bread, reminds us of the nourishment and grace we receive to sustain our faith. Let us, like the disciples, find joy in recognizing God's presence in our lives and in the community of believers. May we remain faithful, support one another, and always seek to understand God's plan, trusting in His divine providence.