by: Deacon Paul Rooney (deaconpaul@cox.net)
3rd Sunday of Easter
(Cycle “A" – April 10, 2005)

Q. 314: Why didn’t Jesus identify himself right away to the two disciples on the way to Emmaus (Lk 24:13-35)?

A. 314: Actually, he never did come right out and identify himself in the story, but was finally recognized by the two disciples. One way I like to look at this story is to see it as a description of our own faith journey.

Consider the elements of the story. Jesus takes the initiative and joins Mr. and Mrs. Cleopas (why not a married couple?), and engages their minds during their “lively exchange.” Grace always builds on nature - - God begins with where you are on your journey, and helps you “grow.” So Jesus asks them about their concerns, and receives a “status report” on the thinking of his disciples at that moment in time.

Jesus then leads them directly to Scripture, God’s holy word, and instructs them in the proper interpretation of the Old Testament. Having fed them with His word, he then feeds them with bread that He has blessed - - “with that their eyes were opened and they recognized him.”

Having been fed with the Holy Word, which caused their “hearts to burn,” and then having been fed with the Bread Blessed by Jesus, their faith matured and they recognized Jesus. This is what every Catholic is called to do: to invite Jesus into their lives; be fed with his holy word in Scripture; and to recognize and receive his Real Presence in Holy Eucharist. Like Mr. and Mrs. Cleopas, we are then stirred to action, to tell our faith story, which gives glory to God and leads others to believe in Him.

Know Your Catechism! Catholics “break bread,” an expression that designates the Eucharistic assembly of the first Christians down to our own day (CCC#1329). Our liturgy of the Word and liturgy of the Eucharist together form one act of worship which was the same Paschal meal with the Risen Jesus himself (CCC#1346-47). He IS Risen! Alleluia!

Deacon Paul Rooney
Mary Our Queen Parish, Omaha