Jesus our Hope

Today’s Gospel Text: That very day two of them were going to a village named Emma'us, about seven miles from Jerusalem, 14 and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. 15 While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. 16 But their eyes were kept from recognizing him. 17 And he said to them, "What is this conversation which you are holding with each other as you walk?" And they stood still, looking sad. 18 Then one of them, named Cle'opas, answered him, "Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?" 19 And he said to them, "What things?" And they said to him, "Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, 20 and how our chief priests and rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him. 21 But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since this happened. 22 Moreover, some women of our company amazed us. They were at the tomb early in the morning 23 and did not find his body; and they came back saying that they had even seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive. 24 Some of those who were with us went to the tomb, and found it just as the women had said; but him they did not see." 25 And he said to them, "O foolish men, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Luke 24:13-25

Reflection: There was enough reason for them to be sad. It was one of the most painful situation for these followers of Jesus, which may have even led them to anger and sadness.

Anger at the way the Chief Priests and rulers delivered Jesus to death, that too, and according to them and the many people who believed, he was the greatest of prophets, mighty in deed and word, before God and men.

Ask any psychologist or psychiatrist and they will tell you that the situation in which the disciples were in created an ideal situation for mental depression and agony.  In such situations one could even lose hope in life and give up completely in life.   

They had lost one of their sure hopes to the wickedness of the Chief priests and the leader’s machinations, who handed him over to the Romans to be put to death.

In such situations the mind becomes sick and the vision of life is dulled and all that one could do if they have good friends, who share the same feelings, is to encourage and motivate one another or unburden themselves of their pains.

The Emmaus story encourages us and reveals to us that there is a place for Jesus in all our trying moments, even the deepest of trials, which even the best of friends can't always handle.

In such moments our hearts dulled with pain and sorrow can prevent our eyes from recognizing him, the source of joy and hope. But nevertheless we must in prayer tell him about our thoughts and feelings and what hurts us and pains us rather than trust in ourselves to solve our problems.

This is exactly what  the disciples did and the living Jesus helps by enabling them to voice out their feelings and pain.  He heals their hearts by helping them take their focus away from the wickedness of the Chief Priests and the elders

 

Instead of blaming them Jesus helps them see the work of God, with supportive scriptural texts and evidences.

What is more he ultimately leads them to the Eucharist which is the ultimate healing in which their eyes are opened to the new vision in Christ Jesus.

Prayer:  Open our eyes Lord and be with us especially in our deepest hour of pain and prod us on so as to never lose hope in your saving grace.

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