THE MISTAKE OF TWO DISCIPLES

We don’t know much about the two disciples who were traveling to Emmaus. One of them was named Cleopas. We also know that these two had followed Jesus and had hoped for great things.

Their hope had turned to despair, however. Why? Perhaps they had left Jerusalem too quickly. Earlier that morning, all of the disciples had heard news that Jesus had risen from the grave! But these two doubted, and they left before Jesus appeared to anyone.

Now these two disciples were walking with Jesus himself, but they couldn’t recognize him. The resurrected Lord appeared before their eyes, but they couldn’t see that it was him. Somehow “they were kept from recognizing him.” So they walked along the road with Jesus, listening to him explain “what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.”

Was he sharing new teachings with them? Hadn’t they heard any of these teachings about the Messiah before? Perhaps they had, but had not fully understood. They did admit later that they were fascinated: “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road … ?”

Today we learn about Jesus through his Word (the Scriptures) and with the guidance of his Spirit. (See John 14:26; 16:7-15.) Does your heart burn with fascination as you read?

Prayer

Lord, fill our hearts with your truth and help us to see that you are always with us. Warm us with your love, and lead us to share it with others. In your name, Amen.

Jang Ho Park