We Too Can Find That Same Joy
A Reflection for the Third Sunday of Easter
Brent Smith, Director of Adult Faith Formation & Evangelization
As the Easter season continues, the Sunday Gospel once more focuses on a post-resurrection moment. Having just appeared to a pair of disciples who were traveling toward Emmaus, Jesus then reunites with his 11 remaining apostles. Those same two followers, from the road to Emmaus, hurriedly gather among the leading members of Christ’s community. Together they share the astonishing experience of encountering the Lord Jesus risen from the dead!
Just as on the road to Emmaus, once more Jesus explains how “everything written about [him] in the law of Moses and the prophets and psalms must be fulfilled” (Lk 24:44). He goes on to state how his life is that of the Heavenly Father’s anointed servant. He willingly “suffer[ed] and [rose] from the dead on the third day and that repentance, for the forgiveness of sins, would be preached in his name to all nations” (Lk 24:46-47). Jesus informed them about his actual identity; his words have the potential to set the record straight.
Our imaginations are set aflame with a vision of how Jesus Christ will forever operate among his followers. He bestows a blessing of peace, one that is defined by a sense of integrity and dignity. Next, Jesus shares his concern for our suffering; with compassion he asks each one of us, “Why are you troubled?” While the original group of his disciples were made “incredulous for joy” (Lk 24:41) in his ghost-like yet tangible presence (the man ate a piece of cooked fish!), we too can find that same joy… at the altar of our Lord’s banquet. The true presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist.
Know that the Lord does wonders for his faithful one; the Lord will hear me when I call upon him (Ps.4:4; NABRE Version)
Painting by Jan Cossiers, “The Supper at Emmaus" (c.1650, Belgium)