Finding the Risen Lord - Reflection

Finding the Risen Lord on Our Journey

During my time as a religious, there was a day off called “Emmaus Picnic.” It was the day after Easter Sunday, and we went out for a picnic after busy schedules during Holy Week. Probably it was named “Emmaus” because two of Jesus’ disciples encountered the risen Lord on the road to Emmaus. The idea was that, as the disciples found the risen Lord, we too go out to rediscover the joy of Easter.

Yet, as we think of the story, the disciples must have been heavyhearted and confused as they returned home. After all those years of following Jesus, joining and witnessing his ministry, their anticipation must have grown deep. When they saw Jesus die on the cross, their hope and vision were shattered. Now, as they heard others claim to have seen the risen Lord, they were perhaps uneasy and uncertain.

Our lives are often like this. Rarely do we have a moment of complete relief or perfect joy. There is always something uncertain waiting around the corner. Even the assurance given by faith does not always make our vision clear. Yet, when we pause to listen to God and allow ourselves to be with God, as the discples did, our eyes may be opened, and see the whole picture of God’s plan for us which has been unfolding each moment. As we realize our every step becomes part of our spiritual journey through the grace of God, we will find a new hope that will never be taken away.

O God, who walks beside us even when our hearts are troubled, open our eyes to recognize your presence in the breaking of bread and the sharing of life. Renew in us the joy of Easter, that in every step of our journey we may find your risen life among us. Amen.

Fr. James