One of my favorites after Easter gospel readings tells the story of Jesus meeting two of His disciples on the road to Emmaus. I have written about it before, and I am going to write about it again this week. 

You may already know the basic facts. Jesus has been put to death by hanging on a cross. He is buried and the tomb is guarded to prevent the Apostles from stealing away the body. However, the miracle of Resurrection occurs despite all their precautions. Jesus appears to Mary Magadalene in the garden and later to the Apostles in the locked room where they have sought refuge. 

However, before Jesus goes to Jerusalem, he meets up with Cleophas and his unnamed buddy on the road to the village Emmaus. Jesus had a very busy day. While walking with the men, who knew about the resurrection, but were saddened by the events of the past weekend, Jesus reminds them that these events had been foretold and needed to take place to fulfill the prophecies. 

For some reason which is not explained, the men do not recognize Jesus, but they are taken with his knowledge of Scripture and want to keep his company, so they invite him to dinner. There at the table, Jesus breaks the bread, blesses it and gives it to them. He blesses the wine and shares it. Then He vanishes. 

It’s a “light bulb” moment for the disciples. They recognize that this is the Christ returned to them from the dead. They hurry to Jerusalem to tell the others of their experience. 

I want to emphasize the importance of the recognition of the breaking and blessing of the bread. The wonder of the passing of the wine identified as his blood shed for them. These two events continue to be the universal signs of Christ present in our lives. They are the Body and Blood of Christ and connect us to God and to each other. All over creation! Alleluia!  

Take this Bread and remember that God loves you unconditionally. He sent His son to show us the Way, the Truth and Eternal Life. Let’s share this gift with the world. 

Terri