Wednesday in the Octave of Easter
Carrying suffering is more than we can handle at times. Whether it be growing up in an unsafe environment, a debilitating disease, or a tragic loss, the crosses we bear seem impossibly heavy. Yet what if in every trial we suffer there are blessings. It could mean that suffering we endure has made our lives more challenging, yet through it helps to try and see that everything that happens is for the glory of God. In the natural world, we realize that death is not the end, it is part of the process. Fall turns to winter, and winter into spring; death leads to resurrection.
Indeed, resurrection is written into the very fabric of creation including that of humanity. That said, an awareness of resurrection seems less universal. It certainly was not clear to the disciples on their way to Emmaus. Jesus’ death was so profound, that even having heard that Jesus was raised, the grief of the disciples consumed them allowing not allowing them to see beyond the tomb. Even when the risen Lord walks with them, they could not recognize their friend. Although Luke says their eyes were prevented, did that mean that God willed that they not recognize Christ until the breaking of the Bread? Or did they fail, like we often do, to sense God’s presence?
How is it that a person of faith could be unaware of Christ’s presence? Perhaps, faith and the accompanying rituals can become so routine to the point where spirituality seems predictable or taken for granted. Today’s readings are a reminder, that God can heal our crippled nature. These scriptures challenge us, even if we are feeling profound sadness, to recognize that Christ walks with us. Yet Jesus does more than walk with us. He calls us through the scriptures and through the sacraments to have hearts that constantly seek him, that are constantly aware of his presence.
Acknowledging the Lord’s presence is only part of discipleship. When our hearts rejoice in the Lord, we are praying. This prayer is the only the beginning of recognizing the Lord. In proclaiming the Lord’s goodness, others are drawn into the experience of resurrection, this is called evangelization. Living the realization that Christ is alive and at our side, pushes us to joyfully accompany others. Just as the disciples recognize Christ in the breaking of the bread and run to tell the Good News. The joy of resurrection compels us to go and share our experiences of resurrection.
Like Peter and John, we must give everything the Lord has given us to help others stand up in faith, so that we might walk, jump and joyfully praise God.
'Lord, you constantly walk with us. Help us to always be aware of your presence, so that our lives reflect hearts that are burning within us. Then may our songs of rejoicing and our spirit of service, make your resurrection known among all the nations. Amen! Alleluia!"
Deacon Michael Montgomery