RBWords

 

     In the midst of grief and disappointment it can be difficult to see any larger significance to the events that brought about the grief and disappointment.  The disciples on the road to Emmaus were "conversing about all the things that had occurred."  They express astonishment that the stranger who joins them seems to have no knowledge of the events!  They will be even more astonished when that "stranger" shows that he has a far greater grasp of those events AND their significance than they do!  By explaining the Scriptures to them, the "stranger" gives a context and meaning to the terrible events.  These two disciples were the audience for one of the first sermons on the resurrection, and it was delivered by the chief preacher, Jesus Christ!

 

     We are the spiritual heirs to the rich but simple encounter on the road to Emmaus.  It may be difficult for us to find this encounter in our current celebration of Eucharist (even more difficult in the elaborate celebrations of the Eastern rites) but the "outlines" are there:  reflection on the Scriptures and the breaking of the bread.  It is in these two actions that we recognize the Risen Lord.  Yet, he is already with us before we do those things.  He is on the road with us, challenging us to find the significance of what he has done - to get beyond the facts and words to the meaning.  He may be the "stranger" in our midst, from whom we do not expect to learn anything!  The words from today's first scripture, quoted above, speak of the rebirth of hope in those two disciples as Jesus spoke to them on the way.  AMEN