Two men walked slowly along the dusty road to Emmaus. Heavy hearts matched heavy feet as they plodded on.
Jerusalem faded in the distance but their minds were on recent events that happened there. The death of Christ on the cross stood in stark contrast to the life-giving power they had seen in him.
They experienced amazing things over the last three years. They recalled some of the miracles as they walked along.
The one named Cleopas asked, “Remember the paralyzed man waiting at the pool of Bethesda? He walked home for the first time in 38 years.”
His companion answered, “Yes, and the young man born blind. We saw him in Jerusalem, making his way around almost as well as anyone. His eyes were anointed and he went to wash in the pool of Siloam. He came back seeing for the first time in his life!”
“Remember when we walked to Bethany to see our friend who was sick? Sadly, we couldn’t do anything for him. Death claimed him and we mourned with his two sisters.”
“But what we saw next was beyond amazing! Lazarus, dead four days in the tomb, walked out alive!”
In spite of these memories, they despondently walked on. Jesus, the one they thought to be Redeemer had been crucified and laid in a tomb.
Suddenly another man joined them. He inquired, “What are you talking about and why are you sad?”
Cleopas replied, “Are you a stranger in Jerusalem and don’t know of the things that happened?”
“What things?” he responded.
They told him of Jesus of Nazareth, a prophet with mighty deeds and words. He had been condemned and crucified three days ago. Women they knew went to his tomb that morning and reported seeing angels who said Jesus was alive. The empty tomb was confirmed by friends.
As they walked, the stranger began to expound on the Scriptures about the Christ. The ancient words foretold the suffering of Christ and his glory.
They arrived at Emmaus and Cleopas said, “It is toward evening, stay with us.” They sat together for something to eat. As the man broke bread, blessed it, and gave it to them, they realized who he was. Jesus, alive! But he vanished from their sight.
Astonished, they rehearsed his words and the scriptures he had opened to them. They exclaimed, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked with us?”
They quickly returned to Jerusalem with the news. Darkness didn’t slow them down as they walked faster than ever. They told the disciples, “The Lord is risen indeed!” As they shared their experience, Jesus himself appeared and said, “Peace be unto you.”
Luke wrote his gospel about the things “most surely believed among us.” He included this story in chapter 24. It continues with more Scripture about the name of Jesus and the promise of the Father. I added their recollection of miracles. They still happen because Jesus is risen and alive.
What great news this Easter and always! In your life journey you can rejoice in the resurrection. Jesus can walk and talk with you in a spiritual way. His tomb is empty, his name is salvation, his Spirit is the Comforter, and his word is powerful. Look to Jesus for comfort and peace because he is faithful and wonderful.
Mitch Glover is pastor of Sterling Pentecostal Church. Sunday services include Bible classes for all ages at 10 a.m. and worship service at 11 a.m. Bible study is Thursday at 7 p.m. Visit sterlingpentecostalchurch.com.
