| Series | The Gospel of Luke |
|---|---|
| Theme | 3. Resurrection - Toetu |
| Colour | Lanu Pa’epa’e |
Scripture Focus: Luka 24:25-35
He said to them, “Foolish men, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken! Didn’t the Christ have to suffer these things and to enter into his glory?” Beginning from Moses and from all the prophets, he explained to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself. They drew near to the village, where they were going, and he acted like he would go further. They urged him, saying, “Stay with us, for it is almost evening, and the day is almost over.” He went in to stay with them. When he had sat down at the table with them, he took the bread and gave thanks. Breaking it, he gave to them. Their eyes were opened, and they recognized him, and he vanished out of their sight. They said one to another, “Weren’t our hearts burning within us, while he spoke to us along the way, and while he opened the Scriptures to us?” They rose up that very hour, returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and those who were with them, saying, “The Lord is risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!” They related the things that happened along the way, and how he was recognized by them in the breaking of the bread.
- Luke 24:25-35 (WEB)
Study:
This passage recounts the encounter of the resurrected Jesus with two disciples on the road to Emmaus. Initially, the disciples failed to recognize Jesus, their hearts clouded by sorrow and disbelief. Jesus gently rebuked their slowness to believe what the prophets had foretold about his suffering and glory. He then systematically explained the scriptures, revealing how his life, death, and resurrection fulfilled prophecy. It wasn't until the breaking of bread - a common mealtime practice reminiscent of the Last Supper - that their eyes were opened and they recognized him. This highlights not just a physical recognition, but a spiritual awakening. The phrase “their hearts were burning” signifies the emotional and spiritual impact of his explanation; a dawning realization taking hold.
Application:
Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, we can often be slow to recognize Jesus’ presence in our lives. We can be preoccupied with our own problems and doubts, missing the subtle ways He is working around us. This passage encourages us to actively engage with scripture, seeking Jesus' presence in the words. It reminds us that Jesus reveals Himself to those who are open to receiving Him, and that often happens in everyday moments and practices, like sharing a meal or studying God’s word. It shows the power of scripture to illuminate truth and to invite an encounter with the risen Christ.
Reflection Questions:
- Have you ever felt a ‘burning’ in your heart while reading scripture? What was that experience like?
- In what ways might you be ‘slow of heart’ to recognize Jesus’ presence in your daily life?
- How can you create space in your life for more intentional scripture study and prayer?
- What does the breaking of bread symbolize in this passage, and how can we apply that symbolism to our lives today?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, open our eyes to see you, and our hearts to understand you, as you reveal yourself to us in the scriptures and in our everyday lives. Help us to overcome our doubts and embrace the truth of your resurrection. Fill us with the warmth of your presence and ignite within us a burning desire to follow you. Amen.
Tags:Luke, Resurrection, Emmaus, Scripture, Recognition, Disciples, Faith, Gospel, Jesus, Bread, Believing, Prophecy, Spiritual Awakening