By Fr. Frederick Edlefsen

Jesus joins two travelers who were on the road to Emmaus. Where was Emmaus? We’re not sure. The name “Emmaus” is said to derive from a Hebrew word suggesting “hot springs” or “healing baths” or a “place of transformation.” So, the wayfarers en route to Emmaus could just as well be any of us. We’re not exactly sure where we’re going. But wherever it is, the journey of Faith is healing and transforming and leads to Heaven.

The travelers – Cleopas and an unnamed other – were not expecting another companion. They were discussing the latest news: their Prophet and Savior was crucified and killed, and now they say he is risen from the dead. Without invitation – and without knowing who this person was – the subject of their conversation joins them. He listens and asks questions. They marveled at his ignorance. “We hoped that this Jesus would be the one to redeem Israel” and “some women” said they found his tomb empty and heard angels say he was alive. I bet the travelers couldn’t to wait to get to “hot springs.”

Jesus butted in: “You fools.” He explained how the Scriptures foretold all that came to pass. He was out of their depth, but the travelers’ hearts “burned within” beyond their understanding. As sunset casted long shadows, they invited this buttinsky to stay with them at an inn. That evening, they broke bread together, and they recognized him. Then he vanished. They were stuck with bill.

This is our story. Life’s journey is a road to a place of healing springs – to Emmaus. We walk and talk on earth, and most of what we say is guessing. But that’s OK. We’re trying to figure it out. But every now and then, the divine Truth, Beauty, and Goodness silences our talk and our hearts burn with a sense of wonder and the promise of new life. We ask Christ to “stay with us” as the sun sets on our brief lives.

At Mass and in Holy Communion, we recognize the Risen Lord in the “breaking of the bread.” We recognize him in Confession when he forgives us. We recognize him when we love our neighbor as ourselves. Though the sun sets on history and the shadows of time obscure the divine Light, we know Christ is Risen! He is with us always until the End of the Age.