The pivotal event in all of history occurred when Jesus conquered death by departing from the tomb in which He was buried.  He appears to some women and then to His disciples.  Luke 24:1-12 tells us about those events.  What is amazing is the next thing He did.  I would think that the most strategic thing Jesus could do next would be to appear to as many people as possible to assure them that He is alive.  However, when we read on in Luke 24, the very next statement is: “That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and they were talking with each other about all these things that had happened.  While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them.  But their eyes were kept from recognizing him (vs. 13-16).  

Did you catch that?  The first event after revealing Himself as alive from His grave is to go on a seven mile walk.  His objective, to interact with two seemingly unimportant men.  We only know the name of one of them.  All we know is that they had been followers of Jesus.  

As we read verse 17 to 27 we observe how Jesus unfolds and explains the mysteries that they were not comprehending.  Then in verse 28-35 we see the results of Jesus’ discussion with them.  Keep in mind that they have just walked seven miles from Jerusalem.  Because of their newly found hope in Jesus, verse 33 tells us, “They rose that same hour and returned to Jerusalem”  They wanted to immediately pass on the excitement they now possessed because of what they just learned about their master and Lord.  However, even though the disciples heard the first hand report from the two travelers, when Jesus appears in their midst, verse 41 says, “they still disbelieved for joy and were marveling.” Talk about mixed emotions, they have just encountered the resurrected Jesus in fleshly form. 

In verses 44-49 Jesus tells us what He communicated to them.  More importantly He enabled them to comprehend what He taught them.  Then He concludes by reminding them of the role they now play in passing on the good news.  Verses 48-49 say, “You are witnesses of these things.  And behold, I am sending you the promise of my Father upon you.”  

Hmm, seems Jesus’ plan of action is still in effect.  So, the question comes to you and me: “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your hearts?”  We have the same Jesus, the same Spirit empowering, and the same promise of His return.  Jesus demonstrated His willingness to go out of His way and give undivided attention to us in times of being troubled and doubtful regarding our relationship with Him.  Are we expectantly praying for Him to open our minds to understand the Scriptures?  And in response, are we prepared to be a witness and proclaimer of the good news? 

Your fellow companion in traveling with Jesus, 

-Jay Letey