WHO IS ON THE ROAD

 

                                                                Father John Giuliani

When we hear the story of Jesus appearing to the two travelers on the way to Emmaus ( Luke 24:18) , we just presume they were two men.  But some Bible scholars have suggested that Cleopas’s fellow traveler was his wife, Mary.

Since this Mary was present at the Crucifixion and a witness of the empty tomb, why would she not be out and about with her husband.

They would have been in Jerusalem for Passover, so it makes sense that she would have traveled back home to Emmaus with her husband afterward.

The Passover came, and Mary and Cleopas observed it like good Jews. They certainly must have  waited in sadness, not knowing what was to happen. But we do know Mary went to the tomb to anoint the Body with the other women. Even though news spread that the tomb was empty, and the angel told the women that Jesus was resurrected, somehow this news must have escaped the couple.  For they are later found on the road, back home, sad and doubting all.

Amazingly enough, they do not recognize the man who has joined them is Jesus Himself.  What we ask?   Did they not recognize the man who they thought would lead their people, the promised Messiah?  

Well, Mary Magdalene was no better.  She who loved Jesus, took Him for a gardener.  Was Jesus so transformed that even those closest to Him did not recognize Him?  And one wonders did He go to His Mother first?  It is not recorded  but perhaps such an intimate moment was passed over. 

As incredulous as this story is, so often human nature is hard to comprehend.  How often have we been so caught up in our own misery that we cannot see the truth?  It takes faith to stay on the road, with the Lord, who we know walks with us!

Image: Rowan & Irene Le Compte, Natl. Cathedral  Wash. DC