For anyone unfamiliar with this Biblical story (Luke 24:13-32), the Road to Emmaus takes place when two disciples of Jesus are leaving Jerusalem after Passover. They are discussing the passion and death of Jesus when the Lord himself, unbeknownst to them, joins the two on their journey.

When Christ approaches them and asks what they are discussing they respond, “Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days? Jesus of Nazareth...He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people..." (Luke 24: 18-19). In this moment, they do not refer to Christ as the Messiah or Son of God, but prophet. For this, we can label these two disciples as the first “fallen away” Catholics. Why? Because not only are they leaving Jerusalem, but they argue and question the validity of Christ.

Following this, Christ joins them on their journey and begins to recite Scripture to them. But why doesn’t Jesus simply say “I’m right here” and reveal Himself? Because not only did Christ seek out these two lost sheep, but He is essentially saying “If you knew Scripture you would recognize me”.

Finally, as the disciples arrive at Emmaus, Jesus continues on his way until the two invite him to stay for dinner. It was there, as Jesus broke the bread and gave thanks, that the disciples’ eyes were opened and they recognized the Lord. At this he disappeared from their sight and they immediately begged themselves the question, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?” (Luke 24:32).

So, what can we take away from this seven mile journey? Well to begin, we ourselves are burning with questions and doubts, especially in these divergent times. But God continuously seeks us out with mercy, and brings back those wandering from the Church like these two lost sheep. And while Christ is always present, it is up to us to invite him in. Additionally, this Scripture passage shows the beautiful representation of Christ’s true presence in the Eucharist. For just as the disciples eyes were opened as He broke the bread, Christ disappeared. Yet His presence remained in the blessed and broken bread, just as He remains present in the most Holy Eucharist.