One of the post-resurrection stories found in Luke 24:13-35 is an encounter between Jesus and two of His disciples on the road to Emmaus. Through this story, we are invited to reflect on how we can open our hearts and homes to Jesus in our daily lives. Let us explore three essential points from this passage.
First, recognize Jesus in the Scriptures.
The journey to Emmaus begins with two disciples, downtrodden and confused after the crucifixion of Jesus. As they walked, Jesus Himself joined them, but they did not recognize Him.
In our lives, too, we may encounter moments of confusion, doubt, and despair. However, just like these disciples, we must remember to turn to the Scriptures. As Luke 24:27 states, “And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.” When we immerse ourselves in Scripture, we open ourselves to recognizing Jesus in our midst, even in the most unexpected places.
Second, invite Jesus into our homes.
As the disciples reached Emmaus, they urged Jesus to stay with them. And as they sat down to eat, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. It was in this moment of breaking bread that their eyes were opened, and they recognized Him.
Likewise, we are called to invite Jesus into our homes, not just as a guest, but as the center of our lives. In the simple act of sharing a meal, the disciples experienced the presence of the risen Lord. As Luke 24:30-31 narrates, “When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it and gave it to them. And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And he vanished from their sight.”
Our homes become sacred spaces when Jesus is welcomed within them. Through prayer, fellowship, and sharing of our lives, we can encounter Jesus in the everyday moments of our domestic life.
Third, proclaim the Good News.
Filled with joy and newfound faith, the disciples hurried back to Jerusalem to share their encounter with the risen Christ. They found the eleven and those gathered with them and proclaimed, “The Lord has risen indeed!” Their encounter with Jesus ignited a flame within them, compelling them to share the Good News with others. As Luke 24:34 declares, “Saying, ‘The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!’”
Similarly, as believers, we are called to be witnesses to the resurrection. Our lives should reflect the transformative power of Christ’s resurrection, and our words and actions should proclaim His victory over sin and death. Let us not keep the joy of the Gospel to ourselves but boldly proclaim it to all who will listen. | NWI
