What I love about Doctor Luke is that he always finds off-the-beaten-path stories to write about. Mark mentions this story but only slightly in Mark 16.12-13, whereas Luke gives a lot more detail here. (Sidenote: Did you realize that Luke was the only Gentile inspired to write a Gospel account of Jesus? And, without dispute, church tradition attributes Luke as author of the Book of Acts.)
The Emmaus Road trip happened on the very same day Mary found the empty tomb – Sunday. Two of Jesus’ followers, Cleopas and another (I’ll go out on a limb here and guess it was Luke himself) were walking from Jerusalem to Emmaus, about a seven-mile walk. Cleopas, according to early church tradition is identified as Joseph’s brother, thus, Jesus’ uncle – (another little sidenote, he is most likely the same Clopas as mentioned in John 19.25.) In other words, Cleopas and his wife, were close to Jesus and were deeply grieved over the events of the recent week. Luke’s story states, “As they walked they talked together of all these things which had happened.” They were definitely aware of the news Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and the other women brought to the apostles earlier that day. These two men were disheartened and sad as they trod to Emmaus.
Along the way, another Man joined them, their eyes were blinded either by despair or perhaps by divine intervention – whatever the case they did not recognize their walking companion. As He walked with them He questioned them regarding their despondency. I love the way Cleopas put it…
Are You the only stranger in Jerusalem, and have You not known the things which have happened there in these days?
The Man proceeded to ask, “What things?” Dear Cleopas went on and on, telling this “Stranger” all that had happened. We read these scriptures knowing this Man was the resurrected Christ and as we read Cleopas’ words and passion we want to say – But, it’s Him, Cleo, it’s Him – He’s alive just like the women told you! Open your eyes and see!
Jesus then began to explain all the prophecies beginning with Moses – undoubtedly Cleopas (and Luke) were astonished at His words. It wasn’t until that evening, when the three arrived in Emmaus and they invited this Man to stay with them and rest, they then sat down to eat and He broke the bread and that very moment their eyes were opened and they knew Him! But, as soon as they recognized Him, He vanished!
Here’s the part I love…
Did not our hearts burn within us while He talked with us on the road, and while He opened the Scriptures to us?
What a revelation these two men had, it’s no wonder their hearts burned within them, they had walked with The Word Himself for almost seven miles – they were so excited they turned around and went right back to Jerusalem to tell the others.
I am reminded of the prophet Jeremiah’s words, But His Word was in my heart like a burning fire shut up in my bones; I was weary of holding it back, and I could not.
Friends, if we belong to Jesus then He walks with us every single day; with eyes wide open we can sense His presence. His Word firmly planted in our hearts and minds – ignite it, fan the flame, and, don’t hold back. We live in a dark world raging with hopelessness – let’s go alongside someone and take them on a walk, on the Emmaus Road with us, and…
let’s set the world on fire with this Good News!
xo
Linked with Kristin today for Three Word Wednesday!
Wonderful!
It’s such an encouraging account, isn’t it?
I have always loved this story. Great post on this passage. I’m glad to read the Jeremiah verse–it relates perfectly. Linking from Three Word Wed today.
Thanks for stopping by, Ginger…will be returning the visit in a few.
Obviously the Reason they were walking to Emmaus wasn’t as important as the walk its self. Because they had no more than got there and the next morning went right back from whence they came. To tell what had happened to them on their way. Makes me wonder if the path that I am on now is only meant to reveal where I need to be. It Reminds me of the countless times, He has walked and talked with me, when I was “unaware”. Afterwards my eyes and ears were opened and I realized He was there, walking me through every step. If only I was a Better Listener, not so blinded by all the distractions that hinder me from seeing, what is right there in front of me. (Ever get the feeling that you have been down that same road time and time again, seems like there
is something you aren’t getting. That keeps bringing you back to this same place and each time you see something you did not see before?)
Oh, that I would draw close to Him , and that the fire would burn deep within the longing of my soul, for the Truth of His Word. I am in need of understanding in how to apply the things that He has been showing me for several days. Lord please, reveal to me the meaning of the inner things that are hidden, that hinder me from being a doer of your Word, rather than a hearer only. I ask that you guide me through and get me to where I need to be, Show me the way, open up the meaning of your Word and let my heart burn within me as you did that day on the road to Emmaus. I need you……… Love, Arna
In agreement with your heartfelt prayer, I whisper, AMEN.
You are a great storyteller yourself Miss Sue. Loved it.
Have a wonderful hump day and enjoy your “spring” that has “sprung.”
Hugs to Hubs…..M and M
Thank you ma’am!!! ((())) right back to you and M!
Great reflection. It is true that if we believe we need to share our gift with everyone. Sometimes I get me focused instead of God focused. This was a good reminder to put my priorities in order. 🙂
Amanda, I think as bloggers we are always “preaching to the choir”, amen?
I’m loving the new Third Day song “Soul on Fire.” That’s what came to mind today as I was reading your post. Good stuff. Thanks for linking up at my place!
Kristin, I haven’t heard it yet – but will!
Susan, yes, let’s go for that walk on the Emmaus road together. I also cant help but think about the Nativity I keep out all year long to remind me that we shouldn’t just celebrate Jesus one day a year but that he is here with us all the year round. Amen! “Did not our hearts burn within us while He talked with us on the road, and while He opened the Scriptures to us?” LOVE those words too friend! I want my heart to burn with the light of God and to share it with all those I meet along the Emmaus road.
Tara, me too!
such a great place to visit this week after the resurrection!
Michelle, and thank you so very much for visiting with me, Cleopas, and Luke!!!
I LOVE this! You set a new fire in me tonight! I keep forgetting that Luke was a doctor…as minor as that detail seems, it truly does change things. Thanks for sharing!
Oh hallelujah! IGNITE, sister!
One of your absolute best. Excellent.
When YOU say that, Ms Lawrence, I know you mean it – so odd when I struggle much with writing something it is exactly the piece Holy Spirit speaks through. Hmm.
This week a song has been popping into my thoughts randomly: “Light a fire in my soul…” How timely, again. Thank you for your obedience and sharing your insights.
His mind in us! Thanks Diane for reading!
What an awesome reminder to keep our eyes open! He really is always walking beside us all the time. I forget this blessing and truth far too often. Thanks so much for this :).
Candace, thanks for coming by!