Pastor's Pen: Walking the Emmaus Road for Lent

“Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us

on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?” (Luke 24:32)

After the resurrection, there are several appearances of Jesus to the disciples. I find the road trip to Emmaus as one of the most intriguing. Cleopas and a companion are traveling the eight miles between Jerusalem and Emmaus. Perhaps they were going home. Perhaps they, like many disciples, were scattering after the events of the crucifixion. The story grows more mysterious as Cleopas apparently hears the report that Jesus’ tomb is empty.

While walking, a man joins them. They chat about the events of Jerusalem, and he seems to know more about what’s going on than he admits. He walks them through the Hebrew Scriptures to explain the meaning behind Jesus’ life and death. Arriving in Emmaus, Cleopas invites their guest to join them in a meal. As the man breaks the bread, we learn that he is, in fact, Jesus himself.

The Christian life is often a journey from crucifixion to resurrection. We experience the disappointment, confusion, and suffering found in this world, yet we know the promise of God’s redemption. As we dwell between what we leave behind and where we are going, we have an opportunity to walk with Jesus through reflection, repentance, and renewal. Even as we feel burdened by doubts or weariness, Jesus will be there.

As we travel down this road, will we welcome Jesus as our companion? Will we listen as he opens the Scriptures to us? In what new ways will Christ present himself to us? This month, we will begin Lent, a season of preparation before Easter. I pray that for us, Lent will be our Emmaus road.