A Road to Emmaus devotional follows two discouraged disciples on Easter evening. In Luke 24:32 (ESV), after recognizing the risen Jesus, they ask, Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures? Jesus still walks with us and opens his word.
Key Verse
“They said to each other, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?”” (Luke 24:32, ESV)
Walking Away Disappointed
On the day of the resurrection, two disciples walked from Jerusalem to Emmaus, about seven miles. They were sad, talking over everything that had happened. They had hoped Jesus would redeem Israel, but he had been crucified. They had heard reports of an empty tomb but did not know what to make of them.
Then Jesus himself drew near and walked alongside them, yet they did not know who he was.
Jesus Opens the Scriptures
Jesus asked what they were discussing and listened to their disappointment. Then, starting with Moses and moving through the Prophets, he explained how the Scriptures pointed to him, that the Christ had to suffer and enter his glory. The whole Old Testament became a story about Jesus.
Their hearts began to burn as they heard it.
Recognized in the Breaking of Bread
When they reached Emmaus, they urged him to stay. At the table, he took the bread, blessed and broke it, and handed it to them. Suddenly they saw clearly and knew him. Then he vanished. They immediately returned to Jerusalem to tell the others.
Disappointment turned into joy, and they went back the way they came with new purpose.
When You Don’t Recognize Him
Sometimes Jesus is near and we do not recognize him, especially in seasons of disappointment. He meets us on ordinary roads. He speaks through Scripture. He reveals himself in community and at the Lord’s Table. Keep walking with other believers, keep opening the word, and ask him to open your eyes.
Like those two travelers, we often walk beside Jesus without realizing it. He meets us in Scripture, in shared meals, and in honest conversations with other believers. Ask him to open your eyes to his presence on your own road today.
Today, Try This
Read Luke 24:13-35 and then read one Old Testament passage, such as Isaiah 53, asking Jesus to show you how it points to him.
Reflection Question
Where might Jesus be walking with you right now, even if you have not recognized him?
Prayer
Risen Lord, thank you for walking with me even when I do not recognize you. Open the Scriptures to me and make my heart burn as I hear your word. Open my eyes to see you, and send me out with joy to tell others. Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened on the road to Emmaus?
In Luke 24, the risen Jesus joined two discouraged disciples walking to Emmaus. He explained how the Scriptures pointed to him, and they recognized him when he broke bread. They then returned to Jerusalem to share the news.
What does ‘did not our hearts burn within us’ mean?
In Luke 24:32 (ESV), the disciples describe the deep stirring they felt as Jesus explained the Scriptures. Their burning hearts reflect how God’s word, opened by Christ, brings understanding, conviction, and renewed hope.
Why didn’t the disciples recognize Jesus?
Luke says they were kept from knowing him at first, suggesting God’s purpose. Their disappointment and expectations may also have played a role. Jesus first opened the Scriptures to them, then revealed himself at the meal.
Keep Reading
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- Related: Transfiguration of Jesus Meaning (Matthew 17:1-8)
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- Related: John 20 Bible Study