Journeys With Jesus: The Road to Emmaus
Now that we have concluded the Lenten season with the Easter celebration, we will take a look at some of the various encounters and journeys with Jesus after his resurrection and how we, as Corpath members, can use these stories to help us think about our own journeys.
Luke 24:13-34
The days after Jesus’ death must have been chaotic. We know that his ministry lasted for over three years and wherever he went he attracted people to him. He impacted the lives of everyone who listened to his teaching. Those closest to him were forever changed as they took up the challenge to go on the “journey to eternity” with him. How odd that this journey seemed to end at the most unseemly of places, Golgotha. The place of “the skull”. The place where convicts went to die. Nobody condemned to crucifixion at Golgotha ever left there alive.
During his ministry, Christ’s teachings constantly revealed that kingdom principles were different from the world’s. The first will be last. The weakest are strongest. The poor are rich. We must be “die to self and be reborn” and have value as “children”. And then, the journey of the king-of-kings and Messiah ends with his death as a common criminal. It appeared as though he wasn’t who he claimed to be as he was not able to escape the power combination of the Jewish and Roman leaders of the day. They conspired to “take him out” and, in their eyes, succeeded.
Everyone saw him put to death and, despite their best efforts and bribes to contain the information, news of his resurrection had been circulating like wildfire inside the Jewish community. Sightings and stories were also being discussed within the community of Christ-followers. When Christ said, “it is finished”, wasn’t that final? It appeared as though it was, but perhaps it was signifying the beginning of something else. Confusion ensued.
One of the most interesting stories, to me at least, is the story of the disciples on the road that led to Emmaus.
Before we go further, take a moment, and read the account found in Luke 24:13-34.
Taking a laymen’s view of this scripture, I observe the following:
These two followers were taking a long walk - seven miles! At least a couple of hours if they were travelling at a normal pace. (V.13)
What a week it must have been for them. Both of them likely had a unique perspective on what happened as they discussed it together. (V.14)
Perhaps it wasn’t uncommon to share the journey with strangers. People travelling together likely discouraged road bandits from looking at them as likely prey. (V.15)
Have you ever seen someone “out of context” and failed to recognize them in the moment? (V.16)
They were obviously deep in discussion. Jesus recognized it and injected himself into their conversation. They stopped. They showed their emotion of sadness as they responded to his question “what are you talking about?” (V.17)
Cleopas is the first to speak. He answers Jesus’ question with a question. My interpretation of his question is “Are you kidding? Where have you been hiding over the past few days?” (V.18)
Jesus engages them with another question, and they give an answer that leads to their statement of who Jesus was to them. A prophet. A miracle-worker. A mighty teacher. (V.19)
They also accused the leaders of the faith of their part in his death. Perhaps this was a bold statement that could have landed them in trouble with the religious leaders should they be reported. (V.20)
Their hopes were dashed. There were many “false messiahs” of the day and now, perhaps, they were thinking Jesus was another one. (V.21)
Trying to make sense of it all, they recount an incident that happened with one of their groups. Someone they trusted and who had high credibility. (V. 22-24)
Jesus engages. He starts teaching them about their faith starting with the writings of Moses and the prophets and helping them understand the meaning of the scriptures with absolute clarity. (V.25-28)
They approached their destination. The teacher appeared to be continuing further on his journey, however, the students, concerned for his welfare, encouraged him to stay with them for the night. (V.29)
Jesus, not the owner of the house, offers the blessing for the food and gives it to everyone. Perhaps it was his choice of words and unique way of doing this that caused them to realize who he was. And then he was gone. (V.30-31)
They likely rushed to finish their meal and within the hour started the journey back to Jerusalem. It was nighttime. Not exactly a safe time to travel. However, their excitement caused them to respond with abandon. They met up with their group and all shared stories of their encounters with Jesus that day.
Have you ever had an encounter with Jesus that wasn’t planned? Perhaps it was out of context, and you didn’t realize he was trying to get your attention with a powerful message. I know I have. At times, others have spoken words to me that only the Holy Spirit could have directed. In my moment of clarity, the message was received loud and clear. When I share these stories with those close to me, they respond with similar incidents of their encounters with Christ. It’s at these times that we are again reminded that “He has risen, indeed” and lives in and through us. He is part of our journey every day and teaches us as only the Great Teacher could do.
Q:What are the unique “learnings” you are taking from today’s scripture and message?Who, in your closest circle or Forum Group needs to hear your interpretation?
Prayer:
My God, this story of Jesus’ encounter with others after His resurrection reminds me that Your Spirit is ever-present with me. Wherever I journey this week I ask that You teach me your ways. Help me to see You clearly as You walk with me. Surprise me. Let my heart burn with desire to know You more. Amen.
For an interesting look at a photographer’s perspective of what a journey with Jesus would look like, consider watching the video series, “Broad Roads and Narrow Paths - Jesus Through the Eyes of a Fashion Photographer”, available to you as part of your FREE Corpath Member subscription at RightNow Media.
You can see it by logging into your account with this link:
https://app.rightnowmedia.org/en/content/details/510035
Go with Him this week!
Steve Shrout
President
Special Note:
If you enjoyed today’s message, then share it with someone. Also, use this content and questions as a discussion guide in your next Forum Group meeting.
Attached to this email is a printable PDF you can use to help with your meditation and reflection. I encourage you to print it, answer the questions and then keep it in a Corpath binder or folder for future reference and thought. You will receive a new PDF each week with each new Monday Meditation, and, over time, your binder will become a book representing your Corpath journey of BUSINESS thoughts, personal LIFE development and SPIRITUAL growth.
