“You have made known to me the paths of life; you will
fill me with joy in your presence.”
In becoming man, Jesus gave us an image of God that we
can perceive: God’s face, once too awesome to behold, is now made visible: eyes
that are merciful, a wounded hand raised in blessing, a heart pierced for our
sins, and a countenance that fills us with joy. But sometimes still, we have a
hard time seeing Him; we question, we doubt, and we give in to fear and
unbelief.
Jesus knows our hearts and understands our human
failings. He reassures us not to fear, but trust in Him. In today’s Gospel,
Jesus joins two of His disciples as they walk home from Jerusalem to Emmaus.
They are confused, unsure of the meaning of all the mysterious events
surrounding Jesus’ death and the reports of His Resurrection. They don’t know
what to make of all that has happened.
Jesus’ identity is not immediately revealed to them as He
explains the meaning of the scriptures and the events they have witnessed. They
find comfort in His presence and urge Him to stay with them when they arrive in
Emmaus. Finally, at table, their eyes are opened to recognize Jesus in the
breaking of the bread. Rejoicing, they immediately return to Jerusalem
proclaiming, “The Lord has truly been raised!
Today, we might envy the disciples the experience of
walking with Jesus and talking with Him. But even now, Jesus walks with His
disciples on the journey. Even now, our hearts burn within us as we listen
intently to His word. Even now, our eyes are opened to gaze upon the Risen Lord
at the table of the Eucharist.
If you ever feel afraid or alone, if your faith ever
falters, take a few minutes to open the Bible, read the Word of God, and listen
for His voice. Come to Mass or Adoration, and look for Jesus there, where He
reveals Himself in the breaking of the bread. Spend time in His presence, and
He will fill your heart with joy.
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