TWO DISCIPLES LEAVING JERUSALEM TO EMMAUS (Lk 24:13-35)
Prayer:
O Jesus, restore my hope.
Imagination:
Picture Jesus with these two disciples.
Context:.
This is the longest story of any Easter vision and presents a model for Christian initiation. In this first part we see the disciples’ sadness and dejection. They are walking away from being disciples.
Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)
Two disciples left Jerusalem to go to Emmaus, discussing all that had happened. Jesus joined them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing him.
“What are you discussing?” Jesus asked. Cleopas responded, “Are you the only one in Jerusalem who does not know the things that happened?” “What things?” Jesus asked.
“Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, a prophet powerful in word and deed, before God and all the people. Our chief priests and rulers delivered him to death and crucified him. We were hoping that he would redeem all Israel.
Also, this is the third day and some women of our group astounded us. Before dawn, they were at the tomb. They did not find the body but said they had seen angels who said he was alive. Some of our number went to the tomb. They found it just as the women said, but did not find him.”
Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)
- This story highlights the human dilemma. Without God, our happiness depends upon events outside of our control.
- Now that Jesus is dead, these two disciples see only one possibility. They should leave Jerusalem and abandon their dream.
- In their despair, they cannot even recognize Jesus.
- They can talk only about these sad and depressing events.
- Cleopas is even annoyed that this stranger doesn’t know what happened.
- The whole story seemingly ends in confusion. The tomb is empty. Angels have spoken to the women but no one has seen Jesus.
Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)
- Jesus, do not let external events take command over me. May you control my life.
- Jesus, if I walk away from you, I will lose my dream.
- Draw near, Lord Jesus. My life is in shambles and all is in confusion.
- Stay with me, even if I do not recognize you.
- When life crushes all my dreams, you are my only hope.
Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)
+ I will place all my hope in the Risen Jesus.
+ I will not abandon the dreams which Jesus has given me.
Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)
We were hoping that he would redeem all Israel.