Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; but they were kept from recognizing him.

He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?”

-Luke 24:13-34 (click for the whole passage)

This painting depicts the road between Jerusalem and Emmaus. Outside of the Emmaus town gates there are springs with ample water to feed wells, for drinking water and for crop irrigation. It is late in the day. The road is crowded. Travellers are walking at a quickened pace to assure arrival in town before nightfall. 

As the disciples saw it, Jesus’ crucifixion was the total unraveling of his ministry. It was a terrifying time for most of Jesus’ close followers. Many scattered into safe-houses or into the hills. They feared the Romans and the temple police had a most-wanted list. After hiding in Jerusalem for three days, Cleopus and another disciple decided it was safe to travel to Emmaus, eight kilometers west. Cleopus had an aunt in Emmaus; she was a follower of Jesus’ ministry.

They have made good time since leaving Jerusalem before sunrise; Emmaus is in sight. Cleopus and his friend pause to sit on a wall by a date grove. A stranger, a fellow traveler greets them. The traveler seems too well dressed for foot-travel into the hills, he has a “yes face.” Something about him is compelling; so Cleopus and his compatriot set aside their paranoia and begin to talk to the clean-man with the yes face. They do not notice he does not cast a shadow, as does everyone else.

They walk on together toward Emmaus talking about the ridiculous price of dates, about the terrible, unseasonal storm and tremor three days before…and, of course, about politics. By the time they reach the town gate and Roman markers, they have begun to discuss the crucifixion of the Nazarene prophet. Cleopus and his mate are reticent to tell this stranger of their relationship with Jesus of Nazareth, even though the conversation has tweaked their raw feelings about the loss of their beloved friend and mentor.

As they approach the last sharp turn to climb the steps into town, Cleopus takes a chance. He invites the stranger to stay with them at his aunt’s house. Cleopus knows his aunt will want to hear more about the crucifixion, and she will appreciate the stranger’s clean appearance. 

Jesus comments on his host’s lovely home and suggests they dine on the roof. The spring air is fine and the full moonrise will provide ample light for dining. Under the starlit sky, Cleopus’ aunt asks their guest to bless the meal and break the bread. As Jesus breaks the bread, he holds it up to the giant moon. Only then, the family notices the moonlight shining through the stretched-open holes in Jesus’ hands. Each takes bread from the man they now know as the risen Savior, “This is my Body which is given for you, to keep you in eternal life.”

It was reported that Jesus then disappeared. More accurately, the too-clean stranger with the yes-face; the risen Messiah, Jesus, ceased to be another; and became one with them.

-Mardsen L. Moran (artist and author)

Musical Reflection - I Can See See (On the Road to Emmaus) - Alessandra Sorace

Holy Jesus, friend and sustainer, walk with me this day and open my eyes and my heart to your saving presence. Amen.