The Road to Emmaus
Well – Easter Day is behind us. Now we have an entire season that leads us to the Pentecost. Yet, here we are on the week after Easter, a time for reflection, discovery, and renewal. This is the continuation of the greatest story ever told—Jesus is alive, and He is revealing Himself to His followers in profound and personal ways.
This week, we’ll walk with Jesus and His disciples as they navigate the aftermath of the resurrection. From the confusion on the Road to Emmaus, to the breaking of bread, the burning hearts of the disciples, and the joy of sharing the Good News, every moment teaches us lessons about faith, hope, and God’s redemptive plan.
We will start with everyones familiar story - the Road to Emmaus.
BTW - I am continuing this format today. One blog file with all the text for the week. Does this work for you? Do you prefer separate files for each day? Let me know in the notes or in person.
New here? Read the scripture first in the CMC App. To get there, click the Bible icon at the bottom, then click Plan. After reading the NT and OT verses for the day, come back here for discussion.
Monday – The Walk of Confusion and Hope
Key Scripture: Luke 24:13-16
Parallel OT Scripture: Isaiah 25:8
Historical Context
This week I think I will start with historical context - first. Set the stage so to speak.
It’s the day after the resurrection. Jerusalem is still in turmoil. Rumors of an empty tomb are spreading, creating a mix of emotions—fear, hope, skepticism, and confusion. Passover has ended, and pilgrims are beginning to leave the city.
Two disciples, one named Cleopas (we don't know the other name or even if it is a man...), are walking to Emmaus, a village about seven miles from Jerusalem. They’re grieving and disillusioned. The man they believed to be the Messiah—the one they thought would redeem Israel—has been crucified.
Pause - what were they expecting for a Messiah? A warrior, right? Isaiah 53 tells them what to expect - but they are not theologically literate enough to know that. (Maybe that is what Jesus will talk about on the walk.)
To them, the empty tomb that was reported that morning is just another confusing detail in an already devastating story. After all, the Jewish officials put guards on the tomb. Rumors are out that Jesus' body was stolen. Did the guards fall asleep. Who were the strange men hanging around the tomb. So many questions - and sadness. The overthrow of the Romans had not happened! So they go home!
Another pause: We don't know WHO these disciples were. Likely not the inner circle or they would be seeking cover. Perhaps a few recent lingerers who liked what they heard - right up to the crucifixion part.
As they walk, Jesus Himself joins them, but they don’t recognize Him. Luke tells us they were “kept from recognizing Him” (Luke 24:16). Why? Maybe it’s because their grief blinded them. Maybe it’s because they couldn’t reconcile the idea of a suffering Messiah with their expectations of a conquering king.
Maybe. But I think Jesus was transformed into a new self that was now different at a glance. Remember, Mary thought Jesus was a gardener (Matthew).
That's all you get today... But the reflection should still make you think.
Go back and reread the text. Find the holes in the story I provided, and how we tend to fill them in from our own context.
You can't read the bible blindly all the time. Each verse needs to be questioned, like we did today.
Reflection:
Have you ever felt like Jesus was far away in your time of confusion or grief?
Don't we all, at times?
The truth is, He’s walking with you, just as He walked with these disciples.
How do you operate with that knowledge?
Amazing, isn't it! He is right there beside you!
Key Scripture: Luke 24:13-16
Parallel OT Scripture: Isaiah 25:8
Historical Context
This week I think I will start with historical context - first. Set the stage so to speak.
It’s the day after the resurrection. Jerusalem is still in turmoil. Rumors of an empty tomb are spreading, creating a mix of emotions—fear, hope, skepticism, and confusion. Passover has ended, and pilgrims are beginning to leave the city.
Two disciples, one named Cleopas (we don't know the other name or even if it is a man...), are walking to Emmaus, a village about seven miles from Jerusalem. They’re grieving and disillusioned. The man they believed to be the Messiah—the one they thought would redeem Israel—has been crucified.
Pause - what were they expecting for a Messiah? A warrior, right? Isaiah 53 tells them what to expect - but they are not theologically literate enough to know that. (Maybe that is what Jesus will talk about on the walk.)
To them, the empty tomb that was reported that morning is just another confusing detail in an already devastating story. After all, the Jewish officials put guards on the tomb. Rumors are out that Jesus' body was stolen. Did the guards fall asleep. Who were the strange men hanging around the tomb. So many questions - and sadness. The overthrow of the Romans had not happened! So they go home!
Another pause: We don't know WHO these disciples were. Likely not the inner circle or they would be seeking cover. Perhaps a few recent lingerers who liked what they heard - right up to the crucifixion part.
As they walk, Jesus Himself joins them, but they don’t recognize Him. Luke tells us they were “kept from recognizing Him” (Luke 24:16). Why? Maybe it’s because their grief blinded them. Maybe it’s because they couldn’t reconcile the idea of a suffering Messiah with their expectations of a conquering king.
Maybe. But I think Jesus was transformed into a new self that was now different at a glance. Remember, Mary thought Jesus was a gardener (Matthew).
That's all you get today... But the reflection should still make you think.
Go back and reread the text. Find the holes in the story I provided, and how we tend to fill them in from our own context.
You can't read the bible blindly all the time. Each verse needs to be questioned, like we did today.
Reflection:
Have you ever felt like Jesus was far away in your time of confusion or grief?
Don't we all, at times?
The truth is, He’s walking with you, just as He walked with these disciples.
How do you operate with that knowledge?
Amazing, isn't it! He is right there beside you!
Tuesday – The City’s Tension and the Disciples’ Doubts
Key Scripture: Luke 24:17-21
Parallel OT Scripture: Psalm 42:5
Historical Context:
In Jewish tradition, disciples were not bound by family mourning rituals but were charged with honoring their rabbi by preserving his teachings and proclaiming his message—a sacred duty they now seemed unable to fulfill.
Mourning a crucified teacher was fraught with danger, as public grief for one executed as a criminal risked drawing the wrath of both Roman authorities and religious leaders. Yet their failure ran deeper; they had not only abandoned the duty to proclaim their rabbi’s wisdom but also failed to discern the signs of divine vindication in the empty tomb and the resurrection rumors. Now do yo see why they were so distraught - they lost the Master AND did not honor His teachings because they were afraid!
Meanwhile, Cleopas and his companion are walking away from Jerusalem. They’re walking away from the place where their hopes were crushed. Their conversation is somber, filled with questions and doubts.
Did you catch what those guys on the road said? “He was a prophet.” Not the Messiah.
Not the Savior. Just a prophet.
Were they downgrading him? Not really. They were just confused.
The Messiah wasn’t supposed to die—at least, not in their minds. So maybe, they thought, Jesus was just a great prophet after all.
And then they said it: “We had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel.” Had hoped. Past tense.
Their hope was dead, buried with Jesus in the tomb.
They were thinking small-redemption, for them, meant kicking out the Romans and restoring Israel’s glory.
And here’s where it gets good. When Jesus asks them what they’re talking about, Cleopas basically says, “Seriously? Are you the only guy in Jerusalem who hasn’t heard about this?”
They’re asking the one person who knows exactly what happened! Jesus, the center of the whole story, is standing right there, and they’re explaining it to him like he’s been living under a rock.
It’s almost like Jesus is having a little fun with them. He doesn’t jump in with, “Surprise, it’s me!”
Instead, he lets them spill their hearts, share their confusion, and process their shattered hopes.
And this is the most important part of this text - Sometimes, Jesus meets us right there—in our messy, “don’t you get it?” moments—and patiently walks us toward the truth.
Their next statement is heartbreaking: “We had hoped that He was the one who was going to redeem Israel” (Luke 24:21).
They are heartbroken – they have no clue what has happened. But they feel somehow guilty and remorseful for something they did not do.
(For my blog readers – this is your secret clue into the tone of the sermon on Sunday… Children often feel guilty when bad things happen to them, and it was not their fault). What does Jesus do? He listens! How is that for a lesson. He brings hope - even when just listening!
Reflection:
OK – the blog got dark all of a sudden for a reason. We need to talk about bad things when they happen.
Where have you “walked away” because of disappointment? Have you ever felt like hope slipped through your fingers?
Jesus invites you to share those doubts and questions with Him—He’s listening.
Key Scripture: Luke 24:17-21
Parallel OT Scripture: Psalm 42:5
Historical Context:
In Jewish tradition, disciples were not bound by family mourning rituals but were charged with honoring their rabbi by preserving his teachings and proclaiming his message—a sacred duty they now seemed unable to fulfill.
Mourning a crucified teacher was fraught with danger, as public grief for one executed as a criminal risked drawing the wrath of both Roman authorities and religious leaders. Yet their failure ran deeper; they had not only abandoned the duty to proclaim their rabbi’s wisdom but also failed to discern the signs of divine vindication in the empty tomb and the resurrection rumors. Now do yo see why they were so distraught - they lost the Master AND did not honor His teachings because they were afraid!
Meanwhile, Cleopas and his companion are walking away from Jerusalem. They’re walking away from the place where their hopes were crushed. Their conversation is somber, filled with questions and doubts.
Did you catch what those guys on the road said? “He was a prophet.” Not the Messiah.
Not the Savior. Just a prophet.
Were they downgrading him? Not really. They were just confused.
The Messiah wasn’t supposed to die—at least, not in their minds. So maybe, they thought, Jesus was just a great prophet after all.
And then they said it: “We had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel.” Had hoped. Past tense.
Their hope was dead, buried with Jesus in the tomb.
They were thinking small-redemption, for them, meant kicking out the Romans and restoring Israel’s glory.
And here’s where it gets good. When Jesus asks them what they’re talking about, Cleopas basically says, “Seriously? Are you the only guy in Jerusalem who hasn’t heard about this?”
They’re asking the one person who knows exactly what happened! Jesus, the center of the whole story, is standing right there, and they’re explaining it to him like he’s been living under a rock.
It’s almost like Jesus is having a little fun with them. He doesn’t jump in with, “Surprise, it’s me!”
Instead, he lets them spill their hearts, share their confusion, and process their shattered hopes.
And this is the most important part of this text - Sometimes, Jesus meets us right there—in our messy, “don’t you get it?” moments—and patiently walks us toward the truth.
Their next statement is heartbreaking: “We had hoped that He was the one who was going to redeem Israel” (Luke 24:21).
They are heartbroken – they have no clue what has happened. But they feel somehow guilty and remorseful for something they did not do.
(For my blog readers – this is your secret clue into the tone of the sermon on Sunday… Children often feel guilty when bad things happen to them, and it was not their fault). What does Jesus do? He listens! How is that for a lesson. He brings hope - even when just listening!
Reflection:
OK – the blog got dark all of a sudden for a reason. We need to talk about bad things when they happen.
Where have you “walked away” because of disappointment? Have you ever felt like hope slipped through your fingers?
Jesus invites you to share those doubts and questions with Him—He’s listening.
Wednesday – Jesus Joins the Journey
Key Scripture: Luke 24:22-24
Parallel OT Scripture: Exodus 14:31
Historical Context
Cleopas and his companion are walking away from Jerusalem, confused and heartbroken. Their confusion wasn’t unique—it was shaped by the world they lived in.
As I keep saying, first-century Jews longed for a Messiah who would overthrow Roman oppression, restore Israel’s sovereignty, and bring justice to God’s people. Prophecies of a victorious king, like the one in Isaiah 9:6–7, fueled their hope. But these expectations clashed with recent history.
So here is the part most do not know - Just a decade earlier, Judas of Galilee had led a revolt against Roman taxation, claiming to be a deliverer. His uprising was crushed, and he was killed—like many others who defied Rome.
To Cleopas and his companion, Jesus’ crucifixion might have felt like another failed attempt at redemption. Here’s the irony: they’re explaining the resurrection to Jesus Himself!
Instead of rebuking them, Jesus begins to teach. Luke 24:27 says: “And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.”
So what did Jesus teach them ?
Who know. We can guess...
He might have started with Genesis 3:15, where God promised a descendant of Eve who would crush the serpent’s head.
He may have pointed to the suffering servant in Isaiah 53, explaining how the Messiah would be pierced for our transgressions.
Perhaps He referenced Psalm 22, which vividly describes the crucifixion, or Daniel 7:13–14, which speaks of the Son of Man receiving an eternal kingdom.
As an aside - this was not new - this same pattern of confusion followed by faith appears in Exodus 14:31. After God parted the Red Sea, the Israelites finally trusted Him. But before the miracle, they were terrified and questioned God’s plan.
What ever he said, Jesus reframed their understanding of the Messiah—not as a political conqueror, but as a suffering Savior who defeated sin and death.
In both stories, God was present and active, even when His people struggled to see it. He lovingly led them through their doubts to trust in His greater plan.
Walking With Jesus in Confusion
As I closed yesterday - it is powerful to know that when life doesn’t make sense, Jesus is still walking with you.
Like the disciples, you may feel overwhelmed by disappointment or confusion, asking, “Where is God in all of this?” ... Umm- right there next to you!
What Roads Will You Walk?
The road to Emmaus reminds us that Jesus doesn’t abandon us in our doubts. Instead, He invites us to reflect His love by walking with others in their struggles.
Let me be blunt and ask some serious questions - Who in your life is carrying confusion or heartbreak?
Good you named them - now, how can you walk with them, listening and pointing them to the hope found in Christ?
I know it is scary to take on that role but... wherever God is calling you, remember: as you walk with the broken, Jesus is walking with you.
Thanks for reading and hanging with me as I process all of this on a week of remembering broken children.
Key Scripture: Luke 24:22-24
Parallel OT Scripture: Exodus 14:31
Historical Context
Cleopas and his companion are walking away from Jerusalem, confused and heartbroken. Their confusion wasn’t unique—it was shaped by the world they lived in.
As I keep saying, first-century Jews longed for a Messiah who would overthrow Roman oppression, restore Israel’s sovereignty, and bring justice to God’s people. Prophecies of a victorious king, like the one in Isaiah 9:6–7, fueled their hope. But these expectations clashed with recent history.
So here is the part most do not know - Just a decade earlier, Judas of Galilee had led a revolt against Roman taxation, claiming to be a deliverer. His uprising was crushed, and he was killed—like many others who defied Rome.
To Cleopas and his companion, Jesus’ crucifixion might have felt like another failed attempt at redemption. Here’s the irony: they’re explaining the resurrection to Jesus Himself!
Instead of rebuking them, Jesus begins to teach. Luke 24:27 says: “And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.”
So what did Jesus teach them ?
Who know. We can guess...
He might have started with Genesis 3:15, where God promised a descendant of Eve who would crush the serpent’s head.
He may have pointed to the suffering servant in Isaiah 53, explaining how the Messiah would be pierced for our transgressions.
Perhaps He referenced Psalm 22, which vividly describes the crucifixion, or Daniel 7:13–14, which speaks of the Son of Man receiving an eternal kingdom.
As an aside - this was not new - this same pattern of confusion followed by faith appears in Exodus 14:31. After God parted the Red Sea, the Israelites finally trusted Him. But before the miracle, they were terrified and questioned God’s plan.
What ever he said, Jesus reframed their understanding of the Messiah—not as a political conqueror, but as a suffering Savior who defeated sin and death.
In both stories, God was present and active, even when His people struggled to see it. He lovingly led them through their doubts to trust in His greater plan.
Walking With Jesus in Confusion
As I closed yesterday - it is powerful to know that when life doesn’t make sense, Jesus is still walking with you.
Like the disciples, you may feel overwhelmed by disappointment or confusion, asking, “Where is God in all of this?” ... Umm- right there next to you!
What Roads Will You Walk?
The road to Emmaus reminds us that Jesus doesn’t abandon us in our doubts. Instead, He invites us to reflect His love by walking with others in their struggles.
Let me be blunt and ask some serious questions - Who in your life is carrying confusion or heartbreak?
Good you named them - now, how can you walk with them, listening and pointing them to the hope found in Christ?
I know it is scary to take on that role but... wherever God is calling you, remember: as you walk with the broken, Jesus is walking with you.
Thanks for reading and hanging with me as I process all of this on a week of remembering broken children.
Thursday – Opening the Scriptures
Key Scripture: Luke 24:25-27
Parallel OT Scripture: Deuteronomy 18:15
Oops - I got a little ahead of myself and talked about this scripture yesterday. Sorry about that Chief! If you are confused – and just read the key scripture above – I addressed it in Wednesdays blog.
However, I want to be complete so let me address what I skipped yesterday here: Luke 24:22-24 & Exodus 14:3.
Historical Context:
In first-century Jewish culture, women weren’t exactly the first choice when it came to credible witnesses (sorry – it’s history). Their testimony was often dismissed in court, considered less reliable than that of men. And yet, here we are in Luke 24:22-24: women are the very first to report the empty tomb and the message from the angels.
So, why were the women even there that morning? Because they had to do the dirty work. They were going to anoint Jesus’ body with spices—a final act of love and devotion. This was a common burial practice, and it was usually carried out by women in the family or close circle of friends. But, as we know, when they arrived, they didn’t find what they expected. Instead, they found an empty tomb and angelic messengers who told them that Jesus had risen.
Here is the critical point and why I did not want to skip this text. The fact that the Gospel writers include the women’s role so prominently is striking. If this were a fabricated story, the last thing anyone in that culture would do is make women the heroes of the narrative. It would have been far more convenient—and culturally acceptable—to have men discover the empty tomb.
The fact that the Gospels stick to the women’s testimony, even knowing it might raise eyebrows, gives further credibility to the historical truth of the account. If the authors were making it up, this is not how they’d write it. Many theologians use this as one method for verifying the truth of the bible.
So what is the lesson from these two lines?
This admission by Luke about the women is part of his fact finding that Luke gives us. Remember how Luke opens his gospel?
1 Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us,
2 just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were
eyewitnesses and servants of the word.
3 With this in mind, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the
beginning, I too decided to write an orderly account for you...
Luke wants us to know he got it right because this detail isn’t just about cultural norms; it’s a powerful statement about God’s kingdom.
Over and over, God chooses the unexpected, the overlooked, the underestimated to play key roles in His story. He doesn’t work according to human hierarchies or biases.
By making these women the first witnesses to the resurrection, God was flipping the script on societal norms and declaring that everyone—no matter their status—is valuable in His kingdom.
Don’t you love it when God flips the script… just like He is flipping the Kingdom!
Reflection:
How well can you defend scripture? Here is a tool for you. Anytime a person is named, do two things, find a translation of the name and try to figure out why that name is important (sometimes it is not - it's just historical). Second, understand that, for Luke, he is writing this like a deposition for court where names of witnesses can be verified.
BTW - what does Cleopas mean – why is that important to the story?
Sorry for the mix up in the blog narratives. I will try to do better tomorrow.
Key Scripture: Luke 24:25-27
Parallel OT Scripture: Deuteronomy 18:15
Oops - I got a little ahead of myself and talked about this scripture yesterday. Sorry about that Chief! If you are confused – and just read the key scripture above – I addressed it in Wednesdays blog.
However, I want to be complete so let me address what I skipped yesterday here: Luke 24:22-24 & Exodus 14:3.
Historical Context:
In first-century Jewish culture, women weren’t exactly the first choice when it came to credible witnesses (sorry – it’s history). Their testimony was often dismissed in court, considered less reliable than that of men. And yet, here we are in Luke 24:22-24: women are the very first to report the empty tomb and the message from the angels.
So, why were the women even there that morning? Because they had to do the dirty work. They were going to anoint Jesus’ body with spices—a final act of love and devotion. This was a common burial practice, and it was usually carried out by women in the family or close circle of friends. But, as we know, when they arrived, they didn’t find what they expected. Instead, they found an empty tomb and angelic messengers who told them that Jesus had risen.
Here is the critical point and why I did not want to skip this text. The fact that the Gospel writers include the women’s role so prominently is striking. If this were a fabricated story, the last thing anyone in that culture would do is make women the heroes of the narrative. It would have been far more convenient—and culturally acceptable—to have men discover the empty tomb.
The fact that the Gospels stick to the women’s testimony, even knowing it might raise eyebrows, gives further credibility to the historical truth of the account. If the authors were making it up, this is not how they’d write it. Many theologians use this as one method for verifying the truth of the bible.
So what is the lesson from these two lines?
This admission by Luke about the women is part of his fact finding that Luke gives us. Remember how Luke opens his gospel?
1 Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us,
2 just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were
eyewitnesses and servants of the word.
3 With this in mind, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the
beginning, I too decided to write an orderly account for you...
Luke wants us to know he got it right because this detail isn’t just about cultural norms; it’s a powerful statement about God’s kingdom.
Over and over, God chooses the unexpected, the overlooked, the underestimated to play key roles in His story. He doesn’t work according to human hierarchies or biases.
By making these women the first witnesses to the resurrection, God was flipping the script on societal norms and declaring that everyone—no matter their status—is valuable in His kingdom.
Don’t you love it when God flips the script… just like He is flipping the Kingdom!
Reflection:
How well can you defend scripture? Here is a tool for you. Anytime a person is named, do two things, find a translation of the name and try to figure out why that name is important (sometimes it is not - it's just historical). Second, understand that, for Luke, he is writing this like a deposition for court where names of witnesses can be verified.
BTW - what does Cleopas mean – why is that important to the story?
Sorry for the mix up in the blog narratives. I will try to do better tomorrow.
Friday – The Breaking of Bread
Key Scripture: Luke 24:28-31
Parallel OT Scripture: Psalm 34:8
Historical Context
As Jesus, Cleopas and the other traveler reach Emmaus, the disciples urged the stranger to stay with them. (Remember, they still do not know it is Jesus). Here is why, hospitality was not just a courtesy in their culture—it was essential. Traveling at night was dangerous, and offering food and shelter to a stranger reflected the Jewish value of "chesed" (loving-kindness).
At the table, something extraordinary happened. Though Jesus was technically their guest, He took on the role of host. He took the bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to them. In that instant, their eyes were opened, and they recognized Him. And then—He vanished.
What This Moment Teaches Us
This story reminds us that Jesus often reveals Himself in the ordinary. He didn’t unveil His identity with fanfare or miracles. Instead, He chose the simple act of breaking bread—a gesture so common yet so profound. But what happens next is just as remarkable: the moment the disciples recognize Jesus, He vanishes.
This isn’t the only time something like this happens in Scripture. After His resurrection, Jesus appears and disappears in ways that defy explanation. In John 20:19, He appears to the disciples behind locked doors, speaks with them, and then vanishes again. A week later, He appears the same way to Thomas (John 20:26). In Luke 24:36-43, He suddenly materializes among the disciples in Jerusalem, eats a piece of fish to prove He’s not a ghost, and then disappears.
These moments are not about retreat or withdrawal—they’re supernatural reminders of His glorified, resurrected body and His divine authority over space, time, and matter.
So why does Jesus vanish in Emmaus?
Pause a moment and see what you come up with... well? Anything good?
Here is my take: His disappearance shows that the disciples no longer need to rely on His physical presence to know He is with them. Jesus had been preparing them for this all along, teaching that His Spirit would always remain with them (John 14:16-17). His vanishing underscores the transition from walking with the physical Jesus to living in faith with the risen Christ.
Reflection for Today
Where might Jesus be waiting to meet you in the ordinary moments of your life? Could it be in the breaking of bread—at your dinner table, in your church, or even in a simple conversation?
As you reflect, remember this: even when we cannot see Him, He is with us - now emulate Him. Take time this week to practice hospitality. Invite someone to your table, share a meal, or create space in your life for connection. You never know how God might reveal Himself in those moments.
As Psalm 34:8 invites us: “Taste and see that the Lord is good.”
Jesus didn’t just show the disciples who He was; He invited them to experience His presence in a tangible way. That invitation is still open to us today.
Key Scripture: Luke 24:28-31
Parallel OT Scripture: Psalm 34:8
Historical Context
As Jesus, Cleopas and the other traveler reach Emmaus, the disciples urged the stranger to stay with them. (Remember, they still do not know it is Jesus). Here is why, hospitality was not just a courtesy in their culture—it was essential. Traveling at night was dangerous, and offering food and shelter to a stranger reflected the Jewish value of "chesed" (loving-kindness).
At the table, something extraordinary happened. Though Jesus was technically their guest, He took on the role of host. He took the bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to them. In that instant, their eyes were opened, and they recognized Him. And then—He vanished.
What This Moment Teaches Us
This story reminds us that Jesus often reveals Himself in the ordinary. He didn’t unveil His identity with fanfare or miracles. Instead, He chose the simple act of breaking bread—a gesture so common yet so profound. But what happens next is just as remarkable: the moment the disciples recognize Jesus, He vanishes.
This isn’t the only time something like this happens in Scripture. After His resurrection, Jesus appears and disappears in ways that defy explanation. In John 20:19, He appears to the disciples behind locked doors, speaks with them, and then vanishes again. A week later, He appears the same way to Thomas (John 20:26). In Luke 24:36-43, He suddenly materializes among the disciples in Jerusalem, eats a piece of fish to prove He’s not a ghost, and then disappears.
These moments are not about retreat or withdrawal—they’re supernatural reminders of His glorified, resurrected body and His divine authority over space, time, and matter.
So why does Jesus vanish in Emmaus?
Pause a moment and see what you come up with... well? Anything good?
Here is my take: His disappearance shows that the disciples no longer need to rely on His physical presence to know He is with them. Jesus had been preparing them for this all along, teaching that His Spirit would always remain with them (John 14:16-17). His vanishing underscores the transition from walking with the physical Jesus to living in faith with the risen Christ.
Reflection for Today
Where might Jesus be waiting to meet you in the ordinary moments of your life? Could it be in the breaking of bread—at your dinner table, in your church, or even in a simple conversation?
As you reflect, remember this: even when we cannot see Him, He is with us - now emulate Him. Take time this week to practice hospitality. Invite someone to your table, share a meal, or create space in your life for connection. You never know how God might reveal Himself in those moments.
As Psalm 34:8 invites us: “Taste and see that the Lord is good.”
Jesus didn’t just show the disciples who He was; He invited them to experience His presence in a tangible way. That invitation is still open to us today.
Saturday – Burning Hearts
Key Scripture: Luke 24:32-35
Parallel OT Scripture: Jeremiah 20:9
Historical Context
In Scripture, fire is often used to symbolize God’s presence. Think of the burning bush that called Moses, the pillar of fire that led the Israelites, or the tongues of fire at Pentecost. The Oak Ridge Boys "My hearts on fire for Elvira." Ok - that last one is different.
Burning hearts and hearts on fire - are powerful imagery. Why? Because Fire represents God’s power, His guidance, and His ability to refine and transform. When the disciples spoke of their burning hearts, they were describing something holy and transformative—a moment when the presence of God became undeniably real to them.
For Cleopas and his companion, the burning in their hearts came as Jesus opened the Scriptures to them. This burning in their hearts wasn’t just emotional; it was the work of the risen Christ, illuminating their understanding and igniting their faith.
Centuries later, John Wesley would describe a similar experience. On May 24, 1738, Wesley attended a meeting where someone was reading Martin Luther’s preface to the Epistle to the Romans. As Wesley listened, he wrote:
"I felt my heart strangely warmed. I felt I did trust in Christ, Christ alone, for salvation; and an assurance was given me that He had taken away my sins, even mine, and saved me from the law of sin and death."
Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, Wesley’s “strangely warmed” heart came from encountering the truth of the Gospel in a deeply personal way. Both moments were about more than emotions—they were about revelation, transformation, and assurance of God’s presence.
Scripture has the power to ignite our faith. When Jesus opened the Scriptures to the disciples, their hearts burned with understanding and hope. The same is true for us today. When we immerse ourselves in Scripture, we experience God’s presence in a way that transforms us from the inside out.
The fire that burned in the disciples’ hearts wasn’t meant to stay within them. It compelled them to action. They ran back to Jerusalem, (in the middle of the night I would add) fueled by the joy of knowing Jesus was alive: “It is true! The Lord has risen” (Luke 24:34).
When we encounter Jesus, our faith becomes more than something we hold privately—it becomes something we live out and share. When we open ourselves to God’s Word, we are filled with a passion and purpose that can’t be contained.
Reflection for Today
As Jeremiah 20:9 says: “His word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones.” Let that holy fire burn brightly today.
Take time today to open the Scriptures and invite Jesus to meet you there. Ask Him to reveal His truth, His love, and His presence as you read. Let His Word ignite a fire in your heart—a fire that fills you with faith, hope, and the joy of knowing He is alive.
And don’t keep that fire to yourself. Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, share the good news with someone else. You never know how your testimony could spark hope and faith in another person’s life.
Elvira
My heart's on fire for Elvira
Giddy up, um-poppa-um-poppa, mow, mow
Giddy up, um-poppa-um-poppa, mow, mow
High-ho silver, away
Key Scripture: Luke 24:32-35
Parallel OT Scripture: Jeremiah 20:9
Historical Context
In Scripture, fire is often used to symbolize God’s presence. Think of the burning bush that called Moses, the pillar of fire that led the Israelites, or the tongues of fire at Pentecost. The Oak Ridge Boys "My hearts on fire for Elvira." Ok - that last one is different.
Burning hearts and hearts on fire - are powerful imagery. Why? Because Fire represents God’s power, His guidance, and His ability to refine and transform. When the disciples spoke of their burning hearts, they were describing something holy and transformative—a moment when the presence of God became undeniably real to them.
For Cleopas and his companion, the burning in their hearts came as Jesus opened the Scriptures to them. This burning in their hearts wasn’t just emotional; it was the work of the risen Christ, illuminating their understanding and igniting their faith.
Centuries later, John Wesley would describe a similar experience. On May 24, 1738, Wesley attended a meeting where someone was reading Martin Luther’s preface to the Epistle to the Romans. As Wesley listened, he wrote:
"I felt my heart strangely warmed. I felt I did trust in Christ, Christ alone, for salvation; and an assurance was given me that He had taken away my sins, even mine, and saved me from the law of sin and death."
Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, Wesley’s “strangely warmed” heart came from encountering the truth of the Gospel in a deeply personal way. Both moments were about more than emotions—they were about revelation, transformation, and assurance of God’s presence.
Scripture has the power to ignite our faith. When Jesus opened the Scriptures to the disciples, their hearts burned with understanding and hope. The same is true for us today. When we immerse ourselves in Scripture, we experience God’s presence in a way that transforms us from the inside out.
The fire that burned in the disciples’ hearts wasn’t meant to stay within them. It compelled them to action. They ran back to Jerusalem, (in the middle of the night I would add) fueled by the joy of knowing Jesus was alive: “It is true! The Lord has risen” (Luke 24:34).
When we encounter Jesus, our faith becomes more than something we hold privately—it becomes something we live out and share. When we open ourselves to God’s Word, we are filled with a passion and purpose that can’t be contained.
Reflection for Today
As Jeremiah 20:9 says: “His word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones.” Let that holy fire burn brightly today.
Take time today to open the Scriptures and invite Jesus to meet you there. Ask Him to reveal His truth, His love, and His presence as you read. Let His Word ignite a fire in your heart—a fire that fills you with faith, hope, and the joy of knowing He is alive.
And don’t keep that fire to yourself. Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, share the good news with someone else. You never know how your testimony could spark hope and faith in another person’s life.
Elvira
My heart's on fire for Elvira
Giddy up, um-poppa-um-poppa, mow, mow
Giddy up, um-poppa-um-poppa, mow, mow
High-ho silver, away
Sunday – He Has Risen! (For Real!)
Key Scripture: Luke 24:13-35
Parallel OT Scripture: Psalm 119:105
Short and sweet today - Think about all the things you read this week.
I had more feedback from individuals on this blog than any before. I think it hit a chord - not only of self, but of others!
Each of us can be the person who listens, who notices, who reflects Christ’s love.
Jesus met the disciples on their road of grief.
Today is Blue Sunday and we remember the children in harms way.
Let’s meet the children in our communities on their roads of pain.
The road to Emmaus reminds us that Jesus walks with us on every road—whether it’s one of joy or sorrow. And He calls us to do the same for others.
As we think about worship today or just collecting our thoughts later in the day - ask yourself - Who is God calling you to walk alongside this week?
Maybe it’s a child who needs to know they’re loved.
Maybe it’s a friend or family who feels lost, or a neighbor who is grieving.
This week, let’s practice walking with our eyes open, hearts on fire, and our hands ready to serve.
Let us reflect the love of Christ to those who are hurting.
For God so loved the world.... You know how it begins and how it ends!
Key Scripture: Luke 24:13-35
Parallel OT Scripture: Psalm 119:105
Short and sweet today - Think about all the things you read this week.
I had more feedback from individuals on this blog than any before. I think it hit a chord - not only of self, but of others!
Each of us can be the person who listens, who notices, who reflects Christ’s love.
Jesus met the disciples on their road of grief.
Today is Blue Sunday and we remember the children in harms way.
Let’s meet the children in our communities on their roads of pain.
The road to Emmaus reminds us that Jesus walks with us on every road—whether it’s one of joy or sorrow. And He calls us to do the same for others.
As we think about worship today or just collecting our thoughts later in the day - ask yourself - Who is God calling you to walk alongside this week?
Maybe it’s a child who needs to know they’re loved.
Maybe it’s a friend or family who feels lost, or a neighbor who is grieving.
This week, let’s practice walking with our eyes open, hearts on fire, and our hands ready to serve.
Let us reflect the love of Christ to those who are hurting.
For God so loved the world.... You know how it begins and how it ends!
1 Comment
I like the way you have constructed your blog..look forward every morning to reading it