In the Book of Luke (chapter 24:13-32), Luke narrates a story about two hardly known disciples of Jesus (one of them named Cleopas, the other unidentified, some propose might be his wife). The short narrative was about what happened while these two were walking on their way to Emmaus.
The story happened on the day that Jesus had risen from the dead (on Resurrection Sunday). Luke stated that the Risen Jesus had walked along with these two while they were talking about the magnificent story of His death and resurrection. The emphasis was that all this time that they were walking and talking about Jesus, they were actually walking and talking to the Risen Jesus Himself -- without even knowing about it.
Let us read the story starting at verse 28
"As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going farther. But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them.
When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him."
All this time, for many miles while they were talking with Jesus as He was explaining to them the scriptures and the prophecies regarding Himself, they never once did recognize Him.
Reaching their destination and seeing Him seemingly still on His journey, the two invited Him in to stay with them, to rest, to eat something, or for the night.
After saying grace and as they "broke bread", meaning when they started eating supper, this was when they recognize the person they were with all this time.
Amazing. That was the first Resurrection Sunday evening. What is even more amazing is that the church of Jesus today (the fellowship of believers), after 2,000 years still do these things. They teach the scriptures to those who want to hear them and they "break bread" with one another -- two ways, either through the partaking of the bread in communion and eating or sharing a meal together in fellowship. And the same way, after a considerable time of doing these, people will come to recognize Jesus for who He really is -- Emmanuel, our Mediator, the Son of the Almighty, the Holy One, the Messiah, the Christ, our Redeemer, our Savior, the Lamb of God, the Good Shepherd, the Word, the Way, the Truth, the Life, the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords, the Alpha and the Omega and the Bread of Life. Because ultimately, the goal is for everyone to be able to come and partake in the marriage supper of the Lamb -- Christ, and His bride (who is us, His church).
Happy Blessed Resurrection Sunday!
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