The story of the Emmaus road is one of the treasures of Luke’s gospel. Cleopas and his companion, possibly his wife, were trudging the seven miles from Jerusalem to Emmaus. They were despondent and distraught, and this was visible all over their faces. Their despair was due to dashed hopes – the bottom had fallen out of their world. They had expected that Jesus would deliver Israel but now He was, they thought, dead. But then a mysterious stranger joined them on their doleful journey. He gently elicited the story of their disappointment from them. Everything seemed black to Cleopas; even the dawn of the third day had made no change to their feelings. The report of angels who had announced that Jesus was risen had not convinced them.
The Stranger, it was ‘Jesus himself’, put His finger on their basic problem: unbelief. They had failed to grasp what Scripture was saying. What an exposition followed as for two hours or so our Lord unfolded to them the great theme of the Bible, the sufferings of Christ and the glories which would follow. With unique skill, He opened to their minds the inner meaning of all of the Old Testament. No wonder that their hearts burned within them as understanding increased and excitement mounted. May we prize similar experiences when the Lord draws near and unfolds His word to us. The sensitive application of Scripture is still the balm by which the Lord heals His hurting people.
Emmaus was reached, the Stranger still unrecognised. Cleopas and his companion were clearly given to hospitality. What loss would have been theirs otherwise. They implore their Companion to stay with them as the evening was approaching. He entered their home. At their table the Guest became the Host as He took the bread and blessed it. Instantly, they recognised their risen Lord. Did they glimpse the nail prints? May we open the door of our hearts to the Lord for Him to manifest His presence.
Their despair had vanished. Despite the hour they gladly returned to Jerusalem with news of their glorious experience. Their grief had been turned to joy by the word and presence of the Lord. So will ours.
