Faith in a Time of Pandemic – On the Road with Jesus

XXXIII.
ON THE ROAD WITH JESUS
(4/16)

While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing him. (Matthew 24: 15-16)

On Easter day, two followers of Jesus are heading home. They have heard the news of the resurrection but are still in a state of shock. Resurrection turns everything upside down. Resurrection challenges our images of the human adventure. Resurrection shows that life is more powerful than death and love victorious over hate.

We meet the Risen Christ on the road to Emmaus. Biblical scholar and theologian Marcus Borg tells of arriving at Emmaus one evening too late to see the religious shrine, commemorating Jesus’ encounter with his followers. A local told him that if they would drive down the road a few miles, they will find another Emmaus! Borg concludes that Emmaus is everywhere and nowhere, that is not localized at a particular place. The Risen Jesus can be found on every roadway and household. Jesus walks beside you wherever you find yourself.

These days we are all on the road. Though confined to our homes, the world is nevertheless moving too fast, and old familiarities are in doubt. But, on this road, we can meet Jesus. The Risen Lord is here with us, waiting for us to notice his presence and willing to give us all the resources we need to face the coronavirus with hope and courage.
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Holy and loving God, you are on every road we travel. You make a way when there is no way. You guide us when we are perplexed. Help us to reach out to take your hands and travel the journey with you. Amen.

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Bruce Epperly is a Cape Cod pastor, professor, and author of over 50 books including FAITH IN A TIME OF PANDEMIC and GOD ONLINE: A MYSTIC’S GUIDE TO THE INTERNET