In Emmaus, we recognized the Lord, Alleluia

Readings: 1st: Acts 3:1-10; Ps: 104; Gos Lk 24:13-35

This brief reflection was written by Rev. Fr. Njoku Canice Chukwuemeka, C.S.Sp. He is a Catholic Priest and a Member of the Congregation of the Holy Ghost Fathers and Brothers (Spiritans). He is currently working with the Spiritan International Group of Puerto Rico &  Dominican Republic. He is the Administrator of Parroquia La Resurrección del Senor, Canovanas and the Chancellor of the Diocesis of Fajardo-Humacao, Puerto Rico. For more details and comments contact him on: canice_c_njoku@yahoo.com, cancilleriadfh@gmail.com, canicechukwuemeka@gmail.com.

On this third octave of Easter, Luke tells us of the apparition of Jesus to the disciples at Emmaus. This story teaches us how to interpret Scripture, in order to be able to rediscover the plan of God in our life.

Jesus met two of his disciples in a situation of fear, and lack of faith. The cross and the force of death had diminished their hope. It was a perilous time, because, the Jewish authorities were ready to destroy any evidence about Christ and his Resurrección. So, anyone associated with him, was in danger of being eliminated.

This is where the apparition of Christ becomes very important. Of course, the disciples knew what the prophets said, but they could not see that it has already been fulfilled. Christ knew that they were confused, and that fear has paralyzed their memory. He knew that they needed divine inspiration at this moment.

So, in order to help them, Christ used scripture and history to illuminate the problem which was difficult for them. He clarified the situation in which they were living. Then, he helped them to see the entire situation in the plan of God. Thus, Christ indicated that history is still in the hands of God.

Finally, he opened their spiritual eyes at the celebration of the Eucharist. Then, they recognized him.  How many of us have been paralyzed by fear of the future to the point that we are confused? How many of us recognize Christ in the Eucharist?

This Easter, let us pray that Jesus may come to our help in order to clear our confusion and calm our fear. Let us pray that he might teach and inspire us to see the hand and plan of God in our situation. Also, let us pray that we may always encounter and recognize Christ at every Eucharistic celebration.

Alleluia, Alleluia!

Peace be with you all!

Maranatha!