As the story of the Emmaus disciples comes to a close, they have good news to share. They had unknowingly walked with Jesus from Jerusalem to Emmaus, about seven miles. As they walked along, Jesus showed them how the prophets had foretold that Messiah would have to suffer before coming into His glory.
Sharing Hospitality
As they reached Emmaus, it must have been nearly evening. Walking after dark would have been dangerous. Hospitality was prized in their culture, so common courtesy caused them to invite this man, whom they thought they had just met, in for a meal and the night. Luke 24: 29 but they begged him, “Stay the night with us, since it is getting late.” [1] So, Jesus went home with them. Besides, the conversation could continue if He were to stay for a meal and a night’s lodging.
Their meal was probably not communion but just a meal with a friend. Usually, the host had the honor of breaking the bread, but Jesus had the honor here. At this point, God opened their eyes, and they realized their companion was none other than Jesus. Jesus had accomplished His mission with these two and vanished.
Amazing Good News
As they realized what had happened, they knew the good news of Jesus’ resurrection was too good to keep to themselves. Luke 24: 33 And within the hour they were on their way back to Jerusalem. There they found the eleven disciples and the others who had gathered with them, 34 who said, “The Lord has really risen! He appeared to Peter.[2]
They would have considered the roads too dangerous to walk an hour before. Now, they hurriedly retraced their steps back to Jerusalem to tell the other disciples. When they arrived, the disciples had more news for them. Peter had seen the Lord. Another confirmation that Jesus had indeed risen.
Do You Have Good News to Share?
Does the resurrection of Jesus only seem ho-hum to you, or do you have Good News to share with others? Does your heart burn with the reality of God, or has it grown cold? God allows and encourages you to turn back to Him and let the truth of Jesus warm your heart. If you are willing to spend time with Jesus, He will reverse the cooling process and heat your heart.
A changed heart results in action. The Emmaus disciples were willing to travel seven miles back to Jerusalem to tell their friends they had seen Jesus. Let the Lord guide you to who and how to share the Good News of Jesus. Look for divine appointments as you go about your daily routine. Be ready for the Lord to work in surprising ways through you.
May the Good News of the resurrection of Jesus spur you to action today. To hear more about Good News to share, listen here:
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., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188.
[2] Ibid