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The gleaming cloud tops and fragrant spring air would have invigorated most travelers leaving Jerusalem. But these two began their afternoon trek to Emmaus staring grimly at the trail, forcing leaden feet up the steep path to the ridge, then down the Judean slopes. They discussed the crescendo of weekend events that had left their leader hanging limp, pale, on a stained wooden cross. Hurriedly buried. Now reports that his body was stolen. The crunch of gravel behind them caused Cleopas to look back. A traveler who had been rapidly climbing the grade, now slowed to join them. He had caught only fragments of their conversation. "What were you talking about just now?" he puffed, catching up to them. "Where have you been?" Cleopas asked incredulously. "Everybody in the city has been talking about Jesus of Nazareth. We had hoped that he was the Messiah. But now . . ." The traveler shot a strange challenge: "Don't you know what the Scriptures say?" Beginning at Genesis and on through the prophets, he explained just why the Messiah had to suffer before he came with glory. They didn't realize their pace quickening and their hearts pounding as they put the miles behind them. Now round the bend stood their village. They were home. The traveler thanked them for their company and turned again to the path. "Oh, won't you stay overnight?" Cleopas called. "It'll be dark soon. Please!" Dear Lord, don't let this hope to fade so very soon. He did stay. Sitting down for dinner, the traveler reached for the fresh round loaf, lifted it in blessing, and began to break off pieces for them to eat. It was then Cleopas saw those hands, mutilated by jagged holes as if a spike had been .... Shocked, Cleopas glanced up to the traveler's face, but at the moment of recognition he disappeared. Jesus was gone. "Alive!" Cleopas jumped up. "He's alive! The women were right after all. Jesus is risen!" The shaken comrades nearly ran the seven miles back to the city, bursting into the upper room door with the wonderful news. "He's alive!" Like these two men on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35), many have come to the same startling conclusion. Barely recognized Jesus begins to walk the road with us. If we think to ask Him in, we come to realize who He really is. Easter's Resurrection declares the cross is not Jesus' defeat but His victory. He's alive to be our Friend, our Hope--Easter's great discovery.
Copyright © 1985-2007 Ralph F. Wilson. <pastor
Pastor Ralph F. Wilson, Director Contact Information
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Christmas Incarnation