Luke 24:13-27 (NRSV)
Read Luke 24:13-27 on biblegateway.com
Verse 13Now on that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, Verse 14and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. Verse 15While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them, Verse 16but their eyes were kept from recognizing him. Verse 17And he said to them, "What are you discussing with each other while you walk along?" They stood still, looking sad. Verse 18Then one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answered him, "Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem who does not know the things that have taken place there in these days?" Verse 19He asked them, "What things?" They replied, "The things about Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, Verse 20and how our chief priests and leaders handed him over to be condemned to death and crucified him. Verse 21But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things took place. Verse 22Moreover, some women of our group astounded us. They were at the tomb early this morning, Verse 23and when they did not find his body there, they came back and told us that they had indeed seen a vision of angels who said that he was alive. Verse 24Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said; but they did not see him." Verse 25Then he said to them, "Oh, how foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have declared! Verse 26Was it not necessary that the Messiah should suffer these things and then enter into his glory?" Verse 27Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them the things about himself in all the scriptures.
Devotion
The walk to the village of Emmaus and the subsequent meal in the village has been captured frequently by artists. The events of the past days have left the people of Jerusalem with many questions. If crucifixions were common events used by the Romans to keep people subject, the death of Jesus was different. As the two were joined on the road to Emmaus, it was natural that their conversation should turn to a discussion of these past events.
The question of the person who joined them called forth the story of Jesus of Nazareth, and the story now circulating — that his followers found the tomb empty when they returned to properly prepare the body for burial — has left the people perplexed. At this point Jesus interprets the story of God’s salvation, beginning with Moses and all the prophets, showing how all the scriptures bear witness to the promise of the coming of the Messiah.
Prayer
O Master, let me walk with you in lowly paths of service true; tell me your secret; help me bear the strain of toil, the fret of care. In hope that sends a shining ray far down the future’s broadening way, in peace that only you can give; with you O Master, let me live. (v.1 & v.4, LBW #492, "O Master, Let Me Walk With You") Amen.