Get attuned to the Risen Lord with us, wherever we are

April 21, Thursday, Octave of Easter
Daily Readings: Acts 3:11-26, Gospel: Luke 24: 35-48

Cleopas and his companion went to Emmaus from Jerusalem. They were on the road. They wondered if they should quit Jerusalem and all they stood for and stick it on to Emmaus. While they were in the midst of their confusion, Jesus took the initiative to re-find them. Finally, they recognized him while having a meal of friendship together. And their hearts were on fire. They believed again and chose the road back to Jerusalem, with the only desire to tell the others the good news that Jesus had risen and was present.

Interestingly, Jesus, too, has reached the same place. Once again, it was his eating of the broiled fish that would finally open their eyes too. We see how earnestly Jesus chose different ways to help them recognize Him.

Once the actual story was unfolded, there was new energy and revived hope. Peter stood out as an example at Solomon’s portico, and with fresh courage and confidence, he addressed the crowd, "Jesus whom you crucified is nowhere healing."

When we are on the road, unsure, uncertain, and confused, we can also be sure that the risen Lord is around, not only in Jerusalem and Emmaus but wherever we are. The disciples' experiences show that he will try different ways so that we may recognize him in the very place where we are, to show us directions in life and the inner courage to follow them up. From the readings, we see that one of his favorite ways to help us recognize him is when he beaks the Eucharistic bread with us and for us. May we be especially aware of His presence with us today as we break bread! Once risen, he is an active presence, ever-present to us.