Third Sunday of Easter

Third Sunday of Easter
April 10, 2005

"... while they were conversing and debating, Jesus himself drew near and walked with them, but their eyes were prevented from recognizing him... " (Luke 24:13-35)

In this very moving story of the two disciples walking together toward Emmaus, joined by Christ, we see again how faith gradually unfolds. Only three days away from the empty tomb, they nevertheless had as much trouble understanding and accepting what had happened as we do two millennia later. Not until they ate a meal together did they recognize who he was.

This story is often seen as a Eucharistic, encountering Christ in the breaking of bread. The road to Emmaus could also be a metaphor for our journey with each other to resurrection and eternity. We need our companions if we are to make it. We recognize God's presence in the breaking of bread, in worship together, supporting one another in our suffering and fear.

In the days when I was walking, running and cycling, some of my best times were the long conversations with my companions, filling the idle time, exchanging views and confidences, encouraging each other with humor and teasing. The best part of our long cycling trips was the eating -- anything and as much as you wanted, guilt free, while recounting the day's adventures, close calls and triumphs. These relationships endure to this day, stronger than ever. They are heavenly and eternal. God is present and revealed in them.

I am also reminded of the more than 20 road trips to various destinations in the northwest with a close friend of mine over a period of nearly 30 years. We picked a point on the map and headed there always avoiding freeways. We talked about many things, especially theological and religious. Always in search of the ultimate cheeseburger.

We have all been impressed by the gallant spirit of Pope John Paul II confronting his declining years, debilitating illness, and death this week. We have heroic people right next to us as well. I was thinking about my companions these days who are adapting to less active pleasures imposed by physical limitations of one kind or another. We still walk and talk together, sharing our thoughts and fears, pleasures and pains, questions and answers. The road to Emmaus is a highway on which we are all traveling. The destination is the same for all of us: eternity in the resurrection to new life. "Lord, you will show us the path of life" (Psalm 16)