Luke Series The Time Is NowSample

Recognizing Jesus

The Sunday after Jesus’s death, two disciples were walking from Jerusalem toward the village of Emmaus. They were sorrowful as they rehashed the events of the past three days. Although some women had gone and found the tomb empty and had heard from angels that Jesus was alive, and some of the men corroborated their story about the tomb, neither party had seen Jesus. This news did not ease the pain of these two disciples. They are sorrowful even when Jesus walks alongside them and engages them in conversation. The pair does not recognize Jesus and is surprised that this stranger seems unaware of the events of the previous week. As they share their past hopes and their present disappointment, Jesus begins to explain the Scriptures to them how it was written “that the Messiah would have to suffer before he was given his glory” (v. 26). 

When the two urge the stranger to stay with them because of the lateness of the hour, he complies and later shares a meal with them. As they eat, Jesus takes bread, blesses it, breaks it, and gives it to them (v. 30). Immediately, the two recognize that the stranger is indeed Jesus, but he vanishes from their sight. In hindsight, they realize that when Jesus spoke to them as they traveled, his words had warmed their heart. Now, filled with joy, they go back to share the good news of the risen Lord with the others in Jerusalem. 

Sometimes, like these two disciples, we are so engulfed in our pain and frustration that we cannot recognize Jesus. We hear good news but we refuse to believe it without proof. Yet, Jesus comes alongside us to warm our hearts and to explain God’s Word, so we, though not seeing, might yet believe. When we invite Jesus into our hearts, he will not be a stranger but a gracious host who will open to us the good treasures of his heart and give us faith to see him as he is. 

Reflect

What things in your life often block you from seeing Christ? Do you need proof to believe that God is always with you? 

Pray

God, help me to recognize Christ in every situation I face. 

Respond 

Take time to read God’s Word, to praise him, and to experience God’s transforming presence. 

Father, open my eyes and my heart that I might be a witness of the good news of Jesus.