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Dear families,
This Sunday's Gospel reading tells the story of two of Jesus' disciples making the journey from Jerusalem to the town of Emmaus on Easter Sunday. They're conversing, trying to make sense of the strange events of the past few days.
Some women of their company who visited the Lord's tomb to anoint His body claim that they were told by angels that the Lord has risen from the dead. Others have confirmed that His body is indeed missing from the tomb!
A mysterious stranger approaches them on their journey and boldly joins the conversation. He brilliantly pieces together the Scriptures, helping the two crestfallen disciples understand that their Master has simply fulfilled the messianic promises of the scriptures. Their hearts burn as their peculiar companion brings the scriptures to life within them (cf. Lk 24:32).
When it appears that the man is going to continue walking on after they arrive at their destination, the disciples plead, "Stay with us, for it is nearly evening and the day is almost over" (Lk 24:29). He accepts their invitation and joins them for their evening meal. As the stranger breaks and blesses the bread, they finally recognize Him as the risen Christ. He suddenly disappears, and the disciples race back to Jerusalem and share the good news with the other disciples: The Lord Jesus is risen indeed!
There are so many layers of meaning in this reading. I especially connected to the disciples' plea for Jesus to remain with them as night approaches. During this pandemic, with its darkness, I've made the same plea to the Lord.
To dig deeper into this Gospel, I recommend Bishop Robert Barron's message for adults. For the children, I've included the video below by Isabella D'Angelo, creator of Catholic Kids Media.
Some good questions to discuss at the table might be:- What were some of the emotions that the two disciples might have been feeling as they began their journey toward Emmaus?
- Why didn't they recognize that the mysterious stranger was really the risen Jesus?
- Why is it important for us to read the Bible regularly if we want to know and love Jesus?
- Where do you see Jesus' presence in your life today?
- What are some ways you will continue to stay close to Jesus, especially at this time when we're unable to attend Mass?
Peace and all goodness,
Leighton Drake
Director of Children's Faith Formation / Middle School Ministry
Sent by Leighton Drake