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Reflections on the Third Sunday of Easter

By Donna Marie Oster

The readings for
this Sunday:

Acts 2:14, 22-33

1 Peter 1:17-21

Luke 24:13-35

Alleluia! He is Risen! After his resurrection, Jesus appeared to the women, his apostles, and today to a road weary married couple. Today’s gospel is dedicated to all couples who have ever traveled or vacationed together. Yes, I do believe the two disciples on the road to Emmaus were husband and wife. One disciple is mentioned by name in Luke 24:18 -- Clopas. In John’s gospel, Mary the wife of Clopas was at the foot of the cross. (John 19:25) Women didn’t travel alone, so I’m sure Mary the wife of Clopas (from the foot of the cross) was going home to Emmaus with her husband Clopas. They were traveling together.

This was not a silent road trip! Mary and Clopas were conversing and debating on their journey when Jesus drew near. I wonder if Luke was being polite when he used the word debate. Maybe Jesus drew near because he heard all the arguing or very loud banter between the couple. Whether they were discussing the events of the past few days, or whether they were debating which exit to use, we know from Luke that Jesus came up and egged them on --“What are you discussing?” Jesus asked. Both Mary and Clopas were so caught up sharing their own hotly debated opinions, they failed to notice who the stranger really was. They did not recognize Jesus.

It wasn’t ‘till they reached their home in Emmaus that the married couple really demonstrated today’s gospel lesson. The couple extended hospitality to Jesus. They offered him dinner and a place to stay. Anyone who has been out of town for a few days knows the last thing you want when you come home tired and hungry is company. Who wants to entertain a guest when facing a pile of laundry and an empty refrigerator! Yet Mary and Clopas were genuine in their offer of hospitality. When they all sat down and shared a meal together, their eyes were opened. At long last Mary and Clopas recognized Jesus!

Every time we extend hospitality, or welcome a stranger, especially when it’s not convenient, we will encounter the Christ. This gospel tells us to be in “communion” with all our fellow travelers if we want to really see Jesus.

Alleluia! He is Risen! Spread the good news. Show hospitality, for we all are on a journey together.