The Road to Emmaus: A Journey of Faith
The story of the Road to Emmaus is a powerful reminder of the journey of faith that we all undertake in our lives, especially in times of crisis. The disciples were walking away from the community and from their faith, feeling lost, alone, and disconnected from God and from others. However, through this journey, they discovered the presence of Jesus, the importance of community, and the power of the Eucharist.
This journey teaches us seven steps that we can take to stay connected with Jesus and with the community, especially in times of crises.
- Walking away
When we are facing difficult times, it is easy to become isolated and disconnected from others. We may feel like we need to face our struggles alone, and that nobody can truly understand what we are going through. However, this is precisely when we need the support and love of our community the most. We need to remember that we are not alone, and that we have the support and love of others around us. - Talking about the events
The disciples found strength and support in each other as they discussed the events that had happened in Jerusalem. In the same way, we too can benefit from the companionship and support of others as we navigate through the ups and downs of life. By opening up and sharing our experiences, we can find comfort and solace in the company of those who care for us and who can offer us guidance and support. - Jesus factor
On the road to Emmaus, Jesus listened to the two disciples as they shared their experiences and struggles. The disciples did not recognise him because they were too absorbed in their own thoughts and emotions. Jesus didn’t offer easy answers, but he was present with them in their pain and listened to them with empathy and compassion. By opening up and sharing our struggles and difficulties, we can receive the help and support we need. We also help others to grow in their faith by offering them comfort and support. Jesus is always with us, even in the midst of our struggles and difficulties. - Invitation
The disciples invited Jesus to stay with them. They welcomed him into their home and into their lives, even though they didn’t fully understand who he was at first. This is something that we can all do. We should invite Jesus into our lives, into our struggles, and into our difficulties. He is always willing to be with us, to help us, and to guide us. We need to open our hearts and minds to him, and invite him to be a part of our lives. - Breaking of bread
When Jesus was at the table with the two disciples, he took the bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to them. It was in this moment that their eyes were opened, and they recognised Jesus for who he was. This is a powerful reminder of the importance of the Eucharist in our lives. Through the Eucharist, we are united with Jesus and with one another. - Spiritual experience
After Jesus had left them, the two disciples reflected on their experience and said, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?” This is a powerful reminder that our spiritual experiences lead us back to Jesus and can bring us strength and hope in the midst of our struggles. - Returning to Jerusalem
After encountering Jesus on the road, and recognising him in the breaking of the bread, the two disciples were filled with joy and excitement. They couldn’t contain the Easter joy within themselves and immediately walked back to Jerusalem, to be with the community.
As Fr Dominic shared in his homily, we can learn that these steps are not just a formula for spiritual growth, but this is a powerful reminder that the Holy Spirit descends where the community gathers together, just as in the Upper Room. We are not meant to journey alone, but to come together as a community to support and encourage one another on our journey of faith. We are called to return to the community, to share our experiences, and to be united in our love for God and for one another.