Do You Recognize Him? - by Joel Hempel One of my favorite Easter stories is about the two followers of Jesus who, on the morning Jesus rose from the dead, were wondering what had happened. They had left the safety of the believing community to find their own way through the crucifixion mystery. As they were walking to the village of Emmaus, an apparent out-of-towner joined them. The man seemed clueless about the events that had just taken place in Jerusalem.
Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; but they were kept from recognizing him.1
The “stranger” as we all know now, was Jesus. But those first disciples didn’t have all of the blessings we have – assuming we have them. We have the resurrected Jesus with us 24/7. But do we recognize him?
Jesus reveals himself in his Word,2 but if we don’t read him, we won’t recognize him. He reveals himself in the Supper he prepared for us.3 But if we don’t eat and drink, we won’t recognize him. He reveals himself in people who are suffering.4 But if we don’t serve them, we won’t recognize him.
Sisters and brothers in Christ, he reveals himself in you.5 But if you don’t look at yourself with the love of Jesus, with Gospel-informed eyes, you won’t recognize him.
Do you see him? Do you hear him? Can you taste him? He is there. He is here. He’s waiting to be recognized.
1. Luke 24:15-16 2. The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. 3. Matthew 26:26-28 4. Matthew 25:31-46 5. John 17:20-23, 26; John 3:16-17; Galatians 2:20. |
