If you have watched space science fiction shows, you have seen spaceships cloaking to hide from their enemies. In this week’s story, we see God’s version of cloaking. Jesus is walking with two disciples, and they don’t realize it is Jesus.
Why was Jesus’ Identity Hidden?
Two disciples were returning to their home in Emmaus after the Passover that Jesus had died. The death of Jesus was the talk of the town, and these two were still discussing it. Luke 24: 15 As they talked and discussed these things, Jesus himself suddenly came and began walking with them. 16 But God kept them from recognizing him.[1]
Why would God prevent these two disciples from recognizing Jesus? In yesterday’s blog, we saw that Jesus’ purpose was not what His disciples expected. If they had immediately recognized Jesus, He wouldn’t have had the opportunity to do some teaching because the disciples would have been distracted emotionally.
By anonymously joining Cleopas and his companion, Jesus had the chance to use one of the most effective methods of teaching: walking and talking. These two most likely knew much of the Old Testament by memory so Jesus could show the scriptures from a different viewpoint. Unfortunately, we don’t have this teaching recorded, and I’ve always wished I could have listened to it.
Jesus Revealed His Identity at the Right Time
By the time the threesome arrived at the home of the disciples, Jesus had given them a new understanding of the Scripture. Yet, they wanted more, and even though Jesus acted as if He intended to continue down the road, they invited him in for a meal.
The disciples now understood the mission of Jesus and the need for Him to suffer and die. Luke 24: 30 As they sat down to eat, he took the bread and blessed it. Then he broke it and gave it to them. 31 Suddenly, their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And at that moment he disappeared![2] At this point, God knew they were ready to know the true identity of their traveling companion.
How Does God Reveal Himself to Us?
Often, we may have preconceived ideas of who God is and how He acts. God knows this and often tells us the Gospel in unusual ways. We may hear the testimony of how God has changed the lives of others. We may even read Scripture. But it may not be until we are willing to spend time with Jesus and invite Him into our lives that Jesus will reveal Himself to us. We find new life with a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, who died and rose again to pay the price for our sins.
God’s version of cloaking is surprising. Click here to hear more:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/foreshadowing-the-cross-resurrection
[1] Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188.
[2] Ibid