Before we leave the cross and the resurrection, let’s take a look at two followers who had been in Jerusalem, experienced the crucifixion, and heard from the women that, not only was Jesus’ tomb empty, but also they saw angels who reported that Jesus was alive.

Now these two followers are discussing these things as they walk to the village of Emmaus, seven miles from Jerusalem. Usually we refer to them as two men. We’re told that one was named, Cleopas, a man’s name I assume. I maintain the other could have been been a woman, maybe his wife, not that it matters, but I’m just sayin’.

As they walk along, a stranger begins to walk with them.

17 He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?” Luke 24:17

 They are amazed that this man doesn’t know about all that has gone on in Jerusalem. Somehow they don’t realize that he is Jesus. So they proceed to tell him about Jesus.

19 He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. 20 The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; 21 but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. Luke 24:19-21

Can you hear the disappointment in their words? They expected that maybe this was the one, the Messiah, who would free them from Roman bondage. But now he is dead, just dead. Jesus might have found his secret masquerade amusing if their ignorance and lack of understanding and belief weren’t so pitiful. So he says to them:

25 How foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Did not the Christ have to suffer these things and then enter his glory? Luke 24:25-26

By now, Jesus has maybe six more walking miles in which to give a long Jewish history lesson. Starting with Moses and making his way through the prophecies of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Micah, and other prophets, he explains all the Scriptures that pertain to him and his mission. It is such a powerful teaching session that, when they arrive at the house, the two invite Jesus in because they want to hear more.

Jesus goes in with them and they sit at the table to eat.

30 When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. 31 Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him. Luke 24:30-31

What was it that opened their eyes? The way he broke the bread? Was it because they were now facing him instead of walking beside him? Or was this the first time they saw his hands and wrists? Just as he showed his nail-pierced hands to Thomas, was the sight of those scars the clue that they were sitting in the presence of the prophesied Messiah Himself?

Scripture tells us that at this point Jesus disappears from their sight. No, no. Not at the high point of this dramatic scene! However, instead of being miffed or stunned, they are reflecting, stirred by all they have just experienced during their afternoon walk. Their eye-opening event is a great climax, but their heart-opening remembrance is what they talk about. It is the verse that hangs with me as well.

32 They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked to us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?” Luke 24:32

Of course they have to tell someone that they have seen Jesus alive, so they hurry back the seven miles to share the good news with the disciples.

Verse 32 is another of my all time favorite verses, because I have lived it. Next week I will share with you the experience and process of God calling me to write.

~ Joyce ~