St James Catholic Church

Today, on the third Sunday of Easter, we hear the story of the two disciples who encounter the Risen Lord as they walk the road to Emmaus. They listen to this stranger as he opens the scriptures to them, explaining that Christ had to suffer and die before rising in glory. After inviting him into their home, they recognized him when he breaks bread with them at their table. Every weekend we live out this experience. We listen to the Risen Lord speak to us through God’s word. Then we receive Him in the Eucharist.
The transformation of the two disciples as they walk to Emmaus with the Lord is dramatic, even though they are not conscious who this is. When the Lord encounters them, they are disheartened and preoccupied. No doubt they are grieving the loss of their mentor. They seem sad and depressed, looking downcast. They may have been angry and frustrated as well for they were debating about all that happened. They are so self-absorbed that they don’t seem to notice a stranger until he asks them what’s going on. But by the end of their conversation, they enjoy the company of this teacher so much that they insist he stay with them. Their spirits have been lifted. No longer are they returning home disconsolate and alone; this stranger has turned their attention back outward again. The Risen Lord has awakened their hospitable, caring, and unselfish natures.
Transformed and hearts now aflame, the two disciples immediately return to Jerusalem to share the incredible news. They can’t hold their meeting with the Risen Lord inside for even a moment. Overflowing with Easter joy, they return the way they had come, but joyous, not downcast. Hearts burning, not mourning; eager to find others, not to isolate alone. They are impassioned to spread the truly Good News. May we too, invite Him into our midst, and share that tremendous news with whomever we meet.
Love, Peace, Joy,
Fr. Bob