Blessing for the Meal
Pastor Alexis Ward Owens
Post easter reflection
What has been percolating in your brain, your heart and your spirit this week post holy week?
What stood out to you during holy week that you just can’t stop thinking about?
Did you hear any of the stories differently than you have in the past?
Where did you see hope this week?
Luke 24:13-35 (CEB)
Encounter on the Emmaus road
13 On that same day, two disciples were traveling to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. 14 They were talking to each other about everything that had happened. 15 While they were discussing these things, Jesus himself arrived and joined them on their journey. 16 They were prevented from recognizing him.
17 He said to them, “What are you talking about as you walk along?” They stopped, their faces downcast.
18 The one named Cleopas replied, “Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who is unaware of the things that have taken place there over the last few days?”
19 He said to them, “What things?”
They said to him, “The things about Jesus of Nazareth. Because of his powerful deeds and words, he was recognized by God and all the people as a prophet. 20 But our chief priests and our leaders handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him. 21 We had hoped he was the one who would redeem Israel. All these things happened three days ago. 22 But there’s more: Some women from our group have left us stunned. They went to the tomb early this morning 23 and didn’t find his body. They came to us saying that they had even seen a vision of angels who told them he is alive. 24 Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found things just as the women said. They didn’t see him.”
25 Then Jesus said to them, “You foolish people! Your dull minds keep you from believing all that the prophets talked about. 26 Wasn’t it necessary for the Christ to suffer these things and then enter into his glory?” 27 Then he interpreted for them the things written about himself in all the scriptures, starting with Moses and going through all the Prophets.
28 When they came to Emmaus, he acted as if he was going on ahead. 29 But they urged him, saying, “Stay with us. It’s nearly evening, and the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them. 30 After he took his seat at the table with them, he took the bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. 31 Their eyes were opened and they recognized him, but he disappeared from their sight. 32 They said to each other, “Weren’t our hearts on fire when he spoke to us along the road and when he explained the scriptures for us?”
33 They got up right then and returned to Jerusalem. They found the eleven and their companions gathered together. 34 They were saying to each other, “The Lord really has risen! He appeared to Simon!” 35 Then the two disciples described what had happened along the road and how Jesus was made known to them as he broke the bread.
Scripture discussion
The disciples had "hoped" Jesus would be their redeemer (v. 21), but then seemed so discouraged and doubtful from the events of the last few days. How do you think they felt while discussing the death of the one they trusted in? How does their demeanor reflect our own times of doubt or confusion? When things don’t go the way you anticipate that they should do you find yourself doubting your faith?
Why do you think Jesus chose to reveal himself during the breaking of bread? How does this connect to our modern breaking of bread?
The disciples felt their hearts "burning" while he talked (v. 32). How does that describe the impact of God’s word on your life?
SENDING PRAYER
Risen Jesus,
Just as You walked with the disciples on the road to Emmaus, walk with us on our journey today. When we are confused, open our minds to understand. When we are weary, lift our spirits with Your presence. When we are doubtful, reveal Yourself in the breaking of the bread. You are the Companion who listens when no one else does, the Teacher who explains truth when our hearts are weary. Help us to recognize You in the ordinary moments of life— in the stranger, the Scriptures, the Sacraments. Let our hearts burn with joy as You speak, and let our eyes be opened to Your love in every step. Shine Your light on our path, and guide us safely home to You.
Amen.
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