The Resurrected Christ on the Emmaus Road

Open Your Bible

Luke 24:13-32, Acts 13:16-38

Because of sin, it is possible to look into the face of Jesus and not see Him at all. 

Luke 24 gives a snapshot of Jerusalem after the spiritual fallout of Jesus’s crucifixion, burial, and resurrection had occurred. Like shell-shocked soldiers, two of Christ’s disciples walked away from the sacred city where so much had just transpired and toward a future, they thought, without the One they hoped would save them. 

The text only names one of the weary travelers, Cleopas. The beginning of the chapter indicates that he was cloistered with the other disciples when the women announced that they’d seen an angel at Jesus’s empty tomb (Luke 24:9). Try to imagine the emotional whiplash. “We were hoping that he was the one who was about to redeem Israel,” Cleopas confessed when a stranger fell in step with them along the way (V.21). But how could Jesus redeem their beloved nation from a borrowed tomb? What could a body so bloodied by brutality possibly do to save them? And yet, there was news.

Some women from our group astounded us. They arrived early at the tomb, and when they didn’t find his body, they came and reported that they had seen a vision of angels who said he was alive. 
—Luke 24:22–23

So surely they were jumping for joy as they traveled to Emmaus, right? Perhaps there was pep in their step after all? No, Scripture describes them as “discouraged” (v.17). They’d been among the first to hear the remarkable news that Jesus had forever broken the bonds of death, and yet, they seem to have concluded that despite Christ’s clear promise to rise, the story of a resurrected Savior was simply too good to be true. 

It’s so easy to see Him in hindsight. He did the things He’d always done: repeating the words of the prophets (v.25), giving God glory (v.26), eating with sinners (v.30), and teaching that He was (and is!) the Word fulfilled (v.27). He was as close as their shadow and true to everything He promised He would be.

Wherever you go, the Spirit goes with you (Matthew 28:20). He desires to know you and be known by you (Psalm 9:16). First Corinthians 8:3 says, “But if anyone loves God, he is known by him.” As you travel your Emmaus roads today, don’t miss Him, and don’t get over the eternity-shifting wonder of this truth that, “He is not here, but he has risen!” (Luke 24:6).

(64) Comments
[x]

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

64 thoughts on "The Resurrected Christ on the Emmaus Road"

  1. Michaela Brown says:

    I pray my spiritual cataracts never blind me to the love of my savior ❤️

  2. Candice Kedroe says:

    Lord help me to keep the faith, even in the midst of everything going wrong God I ask that you help me to keep my eyes trained on you. Let me not forget that you are with me. Help to trust & believe in your words Father God.

  3. Letitia Scott says:

    Amen

  4. Nancie Deming says:

    It’s so easy to stare at our circumstances and forget to keep our eyes on Jesus. Lord help me to see and remember your presence.

  5. Hannah Stokes says:

    Amen

  6. Monica Hansen says:

    Thanks for sharing!

  7. emily bragalone says:

    Amen

  8. Mary Walsh says:

    Tanya I truly understand. I’ve been alone and lonely for a long time. Not really any close friends (although I’m trying). The Lord is with you always.

  9. Tina P says:

    Tanya- I’ll pray for you.

  10. Kelly Carlson says:

    Emily C: your words hold true for me as well! I am great at looking back with regret, looking forward with fear that keeps me from being present.

  11. Brittany Brooks says:

    You are not Alone! You have us Sisters in Christ. I know that relationship is different than what you are seeking but know you are not alone. God is always with you in all of your sorrow and your celebration.

  12. Brittany Brooks says:

    I love this, as we travel along this road, we should always seek him, no matter the circumstances.

  13. Morgan Teague says:

    ❤️❤️

  14. Stephanie Running says:

    This was so good. To be walking right next to him and not even know it

  15. Donna Pettay says:

    I am praying for you Tanya. ❤️. May you know the truth that you are not alone.

  16. Donna Pettay says:

    Tanya you are not alone! God is enough and He’s is your comfort and the One who celebrates with you. May you know that truth intimately! I am praying for you sister that God‘s will be done in your heart and life. That you find peace and fulfillment in Him. And if it will not detract from that, that you may find someone here on earth to share the precious gift of this journey with, together for God’s glory.

  17. Kimberly Z says:

    @DOROTHY praying for your sister Carol and that whatever decision is made you guys feel at peace with it. @SISSY I’m so sorry to hear about your marriage but God has a great plan for you. In a time when you might feel extremely discouraged I pray you’ll leave on God. @MOLLY R. Praying hard for you and all that you’re going through and have been through. When it rains it pours. I don’t know you well but despite what you’ve been through I can tell you’re nothing short of a warrior. Hang in there! Praying it gets better and praying your dads UTI heals quickly. Praying for prayer requests that I might not have seen. Have a great week ladies!

  18. Emily Crenshaw says:

    To be walking right next to Jesus, but to blinded to the truth… so many times I find myself in this exact situation. Right there with Jesus, but completely clouded by doubt, a lack of faith, and my own feelings. Jesus help me in my unbelief. Open my eyes to see you! Draw me closer to you Lord!

  19. Tanya Evans says:

    Please pray for me. I am very lonely. I am single and would like a godly mate in my life. I am an only child. I live alone and have been alone for some time. If there is a victory in my life I have mo one to celebrate it. If there is sorrow, there is no one.

  20. Paula says:

    I know when someone reaches out to me it means that someone who reads your prayer request loves you. Thank you God for this opportunity

  21. Charity Barthelmas says:

    I want to know You, God. I want to love You with all my heart. ❤️

  22. Mercy says:

    “But their eyes were holden that they SHOULD NOT know Him” (Luke 24:16 KJV). Why shouldn’t they? Why did He restrain their eyes from recognizing? Oftentimes we recognize God in the flesh, but God withholds that very means, so we might perceive Him by the spirit, a harder way. “… even though we have known Christ by the flesh, yet now we know Him in this way no longer” (2 Corinthians 5:16). But praise be to GOD….”did not our heart burn within us while He talked with us?” (Luke 24:32). This is the sign .. to perceive how He drops a message into our spirit causing a strong burning within… while a “stranger” talks. Have you experienced this? Bizarre but profound. May we catch these moments that it’s HIM speaking through whoever that might be, that we are sensitive enough to catch that it’s truly truly Him. Praying for you dear she’s that the Lord of Great Mercy, the God of Warrior, the Great Physician will fight for you. With God all things are possible. Don’t fear, just believe. Be blessed dear sisters.

  23. Bonnie P Mills says:

    Lord I need a fresh understanding of your word today. Let me see what I need to see to walk through this season. I pray grant my son the strength and guidance he needs for the situation he is facing. There are so many that need a touch from you Lord. I pray your unseen hand passes by with healing (Roy), guidance (Jamie), salvation for the unsaved (family & neighbors) and all who have grown cold with the walk. Thank you Lord for your mercy and grace..As the two walked and said did not “our hearts burn” as he was talking to us. Let my heart burn for your word….

  24. Tricia Cavanaugh says:

    Oh dear sisters! I am praying for your requests. For those of you who have suffered loss, whether it’s the death of a loved one, or friend, whether it’s the loss of someone in your life, but not by death, whether it’s a physical loss or an emotional loss. They hurt. I am praying that you will have peace and strength, and that the Lord will show himself so real to you.

    I know it is afternoon in Pennsylvania and on the other side of the pond it is almost time for bed. Blessings to each of you. 

  25. Jennifer Anapol says:

    I pray that I would recognize Jesus in my own life and know that He is walking with me through all of my journeys.

  26. Donna Wolcott says:

    As someone mentioned earlier, so many prayer concerns. Lifting you each up as I read and yet there are so many more silently on hearts. I hope all had a beautiful Easter! Hugs sisters!

  27. Claire B says:

    Giving thanks that I was born into a Christian family, went to church from birth, and never had to wonder if Jesus Resurrection was real.

  28. Claire B says:

    ♥️

  29. Tami C says:

    Praying for Jane. He’s her body Lord. Sissy stand strong! I just listened to a message from Elevation Church by Pastor Wilkerson called “the storm has a purpose “. By the end I was crying and on my knees. I think it will encourage you. Prayers for molly and family and Dorothy’s sister Carol. Pls pray for Michelle- a lovely 21 year old suffering from borderline personality disorder and no will to live. Her mom Madeleine is my BF and Michelle like a 2nd daughter. She has been struggling for years and her parents go from crisis to crisis with her. They are speaking to doc this week about new meds. Pls pray. Thank you and God bless you all

  30. Heidi says:

    SISSY – So brave of you to share where you are and what is happening in your story… I’m sorry for the heartbreak and the pain in your loss. I hope you are able to find wise counsel to be able to really grieve and process all you are going through so that you can move forward with a healed heart. Stay confident that nothing surprises your God and He is sitting right with you in all of this. He is near to the brokenhearted – so stay in that space as long as you need to knowing He’s grieving with you. He still has so much in store for your life and your influence of Him to those around you. Praying that through this process you will learn so much more how deeply in love with you your Father is. ❤️

  31. Michelle Patire says:

    Goodness, so many prayer requests the past two days. I want to pray for you all.

    @Lehua- glad to see you back here this week… And thankful for your words this morning! I read your comment about feeling invisible and rejected at work, that is so so hard. May God continue to bless the work of your hands and give you much wisdom as you live in obedience to Him. You are not alone and may you see God is fighting on Your behalf. Truly. Even when you can’t see it, He is working. Love you, friend <3

    @Erica Wilson– AMEN to what you posted today !! :)

    @Sissy- I am sorry to know that within this past year, things haven't looked up for you. May God give you comfort and guidance as you move forward, day by day. He is near you and your broken heart. May He fill you with the knowledge of His love. <3

    @Dorothy- prayers for your sister as your family navigates what is best for her health. God, be the center and the answer. Help them to trust You as they make decisions, knowing she is in the palm of Your hand.

    @Molly R- my heart grieves for all you have been through lately with your parents. Life is so hard. May God lift the burdens you carry. May He help you release them and the emotions that lay so heavy on your heart. May He bring new hope and peace to your family and these situations. Lord, please bless Molly and her family, and help them see You in their midst.

    @Maci Reaves- God bless you and peace to you as you learn even deeper depths of the power of the resurrection. I am sorry for your loss. May God continue to remind you your grandfather is not truly lost, but joyful in His presence.

    @Lanie H- God bless you and your doctor visit. May He strengthen you and establish you, no matter what the news. May hope continue to dwell in your spirit– as He is always dwelling with you!

    @JMW- the Lord will give you the words you should speak, in the very hour. As I told Lehua, God fights for us. He fights for you, even when you can't see it. May you continue to trust Him as you are tested in your workplace. Grace, hope, and peace to you. You are doing a good job, sister :)

    May we all continue to look up and ahead, instead of around. I passed by a church a few months ago and on their sign they had,

    "Regret looks behind.
    Worry looks around.
    Faith looks ahead."

    I have this posted on my desk to look at everyday. May we look ahead <3 Grace and peace to you all, Shes, esp those I have not listed by name but are in need. You are seen by Jesus, always.

  32. Traci Gendron says:

    Because of sin, it is possible to look into the face of Jesus and not see Him at all. How often do we do this? Getting caught up in gossip, selfishness, etc and not being able to see Him. Lord God help me to keep my eyes up on You!

  33. GramsieSue says:

    Imagine the greatest Teacher explaining the greatest themes from the greatest Book and bringing the greatest blessings to men’s lives: eyes open to see Him, hearts open to receive the Work and lips open to tell others what Jesus said to them!

    What they needed was a fresh understanding of the Word of God, and Jesus gave that understanding to them.

    Prayers for Jane, Molly R, Sissy, and others this morning.
    Hugs to all. ❤️

  34. Dorothy says:

    Sisters, I come again asking for prayer for my sister, Carol, what was thought to be a blood clot on her lung is a mass on the main artery of the lung. My brothers and I have to decide whether to allow a special scope be done in which they will have to put her on a respirator during the procedure. My brothers and I discussed it last night, my eldest brother and I will talk further with the doctor today at about noon CST. I know God and Christ have her in Their hands.

  35. Cindy Hanna says:

    I love that we are now studying why the resurrection of Jesus should make a life changing difference to us. Too often we mentally leave Jesus on the cross suffering for our sins and forget the freeing power of the resurrection. It opens discouraged eyes to see Jesus walking beside us… turning our weary hearts from fear to joy.

  36. Allison Bentley says:

    27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself. – Luke 24:27. What a blessing this must have been to hear and yet they STILL didn’t recognize Jesus. How many times in my life have I been blinded by my own fear so much I didn’t recognize Jesus right next to me ? Lord open our eyes to see you in everything and everyone!!!

  37. Rhonda J. says:

    Today’s scripture always puzzled me- how could followers of Jesus not realize it was JESUS walking and talking RIGHT beside them??!

    And now I question that same thing to myself- how do I not realize HE, my risen, living saviour IS walking beside me, always, from that day I received Him!!? I know He is beside me as I go through life, but when the hard comes, it’s as if that knowledge goes right out the window and I wonder where he is! He is the same God, never changing, of yesterday, today and tomorrow! (Praise God!) The more I walk with Him daily in my life, the more the habit and routine forms, I am putting and writing His words on my heart. I am thinking of how every action needs to tie into my Father. I learn to pray about everything without ceasing. I learn to lament to Him, to cry out to HIM, and to give my joy to Him, all to glorify Him! He is GOOD. In all things He. is. good.

    I like visual stories, so I watched lots of Easter type youtubes. The one I really liked that showed the “stranger” walking along with the two men was called “The Resurrection: Uncovering the Truth Behind the Story of Easter.” It is only about 35 minutes long.

    Have a good Tues She’s. And prayers for you all.

  38. Molly R says:

    The gift of the Holy Spirit is like an everyday walk on the Emmaus Road – I have my Guide and Comforter explaining all the areas I am missing the point, and He’s reminding me how much He has done and has yet to do in my life. And it reminded me that it’s ok to miss the mark because He is there to enlighten my foolishness, and get me back on track.

    My dad is back in the hospital with a urinary tract infection (from his now permanent catheter). His blood pressure is also low. He was admitted yesterday to treat it. Not sure how long he will stay this time. It was beginning to feel settled with my parents. They were moved into their new apartment in an assisted living facility, and all we had left to do was finishing cleaning out the house and sell it. I think we were all hoping for a respite in the roller coaster of the last few months and hoping for the dust to settle. I was stressed and felt derailed all day yesterday with the news. I will be spending the weekend helping my siblings again, and waiting on news of my dad’s most current hospitalization. Thank you for walking alongside me, Friends.

  39. Gloria Dalebout says:

    Lord help me to know you more! To be able to walk with Him and hear his voice explain it all would be wonderful! Thanks to his sacrifice, one day we will♥️

  40. Irene Cedillo says:

    Sometimes I miss Jesus in my midst. I pray that today I am reminded constantly that He is with me. May this help my weary heart and feed my Spirit man in order to continue seeking Him and moving the Kingdom forward.

  41. Kyle Hopkins says:

    How faithful is our Lord, even when we have all the facts (like Cheops and friend), we still don’t believe or we still are discouraged – and He is right there with us!!! And as @Erica Wilson says, Jesus is Patient with us!! Hallelujah

  42. Beth AnneYoung says:

    Praying for Jane right now. Praying for healing for her body.

  43. Erica Chiarelli says:

    I want to know You, God, and be known by You!! In You is life and love and all we need!!

  44. Lindsey Osterhaven says:

    Amen

  45. Rachel Marker says:

    Jesus touch Jane, take away this fever !! Thank you Lord that she is getting better right now !!

  46. Sissy says:

    It’s been quite a while since I’ve responded. About a year ago I asked you to pray for my marriage. My husband said he just wasn’t happy anymore and didn’t know what he wanted. Well after this whole year he’s decided he wants a divorce after 29 years of marriage.
    I’m totally heartbroken but I have peace knowing that God has a plan for me. Please pray for me as I go through this to keep my focus on Him.
    I’m going to be moving after the divorce is final and start a new chapter in my life. Please pray that I seek His will on where I need to go from here with my career and future.

  47. Taylor says:

    Lifting up all the prayer requests! <3 I pray that my eyes would be open for God-sightings in my day.

  48. Libby K says:

    Give me eyes to see You anew

  49. Jenny Somers says:

    Also – please be praying for my lovely 9 year old, Jane. She is on day 6 of fever and I want her to be well. Thank you. ❤️

  50. Jenny Somers says:

    My husband and I were recently in a counseling session and our counselor said, “The Lord has a plan for you and he wants to tell you what that plan is. He doesn’t want to leave you in the dark.” How encouraging and comforting. I love that while the disciples didn’t recognize the physical Jesus, their hearts did. Their hearts burned within their chests. Beautiful.

  51. Aimee D-R says:

    He is alive! Hallelujah!

  52. Melanie says:

    Cling to Jesus!!!

  53. Erica Wilson says:

    I’m so thankful for Jesus’ PATIENCE. He does not condemn the disciples for their “foolishness” or “slowness to believe.” He continues to walk with them and reveal Himself to them in the Scriptures and His presence. This is so encouraging to me. Jesus is patient with my slow and foolish heart, and He will continue to walk with me and reveal

  54. Elaine Morgan says:

    ❤️

  55. Searching says:

    May I always remember that Jesus is always with me.

    Praying through each of my sisters’ requests, and especially mourning with those who have lost their dad/granddad (ELIZABETH CARLOCK, REBECCA MILLER, HOLLY)
    LEHUA K – treatment at work
    LANIE H – upcoming ultrasound
    JMW – meeting
    DOROTHY – Carol
    C. – relief from anxiety
    CANDACE SMITH – brother in law’s health
    TARA B – Melissa’s family, so sorry for their loss, and yours
    LIZZIE T and KRISTEN FULTZ – cling to Him, our Living Hope ❤️

    TERESA DONLEY – thank you for sharing the testimony about your mom
    KYLE HOPKINS – loss of your MIL and praise for her salvation!
    GRAMSIESUE- praise for niece’s amazing salvation! Praying she will cling to Jesus

    Thank you to those praying for my friend’s procedure yesterday. There was a possibility of another procedure today, praying all goes well and that I am able to get an update soon.

    Another prayer request for a friend whose dad was just diagnosed with stage 3 cancer. They are all reeling from the news.

  56. TIna says:

    Thank you ERIN DAVIS for this absolute truth this morning! Just what I needed reminding of, that no matter ‘my Emmaus road’ I have Jesus silently, yet lovingly walks beside me..

    Game changer, when not quite in the zone..

    BUT GOD..

    AMEN.

  57. Kristen says:

    Amen! In agreement with your response and prayers. Thanks to Erin for this devotional and Lehua K. for your words! May we seek Him and know He can be with us! I heard a pastor say this weekend that a prayer he says every day is to help him to love God more or better. ( I don’t remember exactly which one, but I think that is a good prayer.) May we be more in awe of Him and bring glory to Him! Prayers for you all today!

  58. TIna says:

    ALISA W..how awesome would thst be to re act the Emmaus Road story… but sister, I wonder, are we ready ? I know for myself, I absolutely believe, yet, I am not sure I’m fully ready..

    My story that I often add myself to the story is the woman with the bleeding issue.. oh to just touch the hem of His garment..
    Blessings my dear..❤

    LEHUA K.. prayerful you know God’s nearness in your troubles..
    His Word say He is near to the hurting , to those who worship Him in truth.. Sister, He’s got you.. hold fast..

    Death is defeated.!

    Whatever we have going on..He is victorious..

    Blessings wrapped in prayers..❤

    ANTOINETTE.. Joining you and the symphony of angels to say ..Thank you Jesus.. Thank you..❤

    MARY ANNE GRAVES.. AMEN, indeed..

    BUT GOD..❤

    KELLY (NEO)..Echoing your words this morning.. and making them my rayer throughout the day..
    O that my eyes would see You today, Jesus! Give me ears to hear and eyes to see…
    Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

    AMEN.
    LOoove you sister.❤

    To all, yet to respond, sending much love and hugs, wrapped in prayers across the pond, for a God blessed day!❤❤❤

  59. Ally M says:

    He is risen! Alleluia!

  60. Kelly (NEO) says:

    O that my eyes would see You today, Jesus! Give me ears to hear and eyes to see…

    TARA B – I’m sorry for your loss. Praying for the Lyle family.

    CANDACE SMITH – praying for your B-I-L and for wisdom for the doctors.

    DOROTHY – praying for Carol. She has had a rough couple of years for sure.

    LEHUA K – I’m sorry that you have not been treated well by your co-workers. Praying the Lord gives you wisdom and clear direction for your next steps.

    LANIE H – praying you sense the Lord’s peace during your ultrasound today

    JMW – praying your rightousness and integrity shine as a blinding light in your work situation. May the truth be revealed and God be glorified.

  61. Mary Ann Graves says:

    Amen

  62. Antoinette Burnett says:

    Thank you, Jesus!

  63. Lehua K. says:

    This was really convicting to read, but in the best way. How often do I walk with my head down, discouraged, when Jesus is walking right beside me… and when the Holy Spirit is within me? This reminded me that even though I may walk through the valley of the shadow of death, He is with me. It also reminds me of the song “Another In the Fire.”

    ❤️ I hope you all have a blessed Tuesday. ❤️

  64. Alisa W says:

    Wow! Praise God. Great reading today. I always wish I was on that walk with Jesus. Do you think we can re-act it when he comes again? It would be great to witness.