Luke 24:28
And they drew nigh vnto the village, whither they went, and hee made as though hee would haue gone further. Luke 24:28 (KJV)
The events in Luke 24 occur after Jesus’ crucifixion and burial. On the third day, some women discovered the empty tomb and received a message from angels proclaiming His resurrection. The disciples mentioned in this verse were on their way to a village called Emmaus, located about seven miles from Jerusalem. The two disciples were discussing the events of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial, and the reports of His resurrection.
The Road to Emmaus: As the disciples were traveling, Jesus Himself approached and began walking with them. However, the disciples did not recognize Him because their eyes were “holden” or prevented from recognizing Him (Luke 24:16).
Jesus’ Appearance: In Luke 24:28, we learn that as they approached the village, Jesus said, “Let us now go on, that I may return unto my father, and into my mother’s house,” indicating that He intended to continue the journey.
Invitation to Stay: However, the two disciples, not realizing it was Jesus, urged Him to stay with them since it was already late in the day. They extended their hospitality and said, “Abide with us: for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent” (Luke 24:29).
The Meal and Revelation: Jesus accepted their invitation and joined them for a meal. As He broke bread and blessed it, their eyes were opened, and they recognized Him. This revelation caused them great joy and wonder (Luke 24:30-32).
The Significance: Luke 24:28, along with the subsequent events, highlights several important aspects: Jesus’ willingness to journey alongside His followers, even though they did not recognize Him initially; the disciples’ hospitality and insistence on inviting the stranger to stay with them; the moment of revelation occurring during the breaking of bread, which echoes the Last Supper and foreshadows the institution of the Holy Communion.
Overall, Luke 24:28 reminds us of the graciousness of Jesus in desiring to accompany us on our journey through life. It also emphasises the importance of hospitality and the potential for divine encounters in ordinary moments, such as sharing a meal. The passage teaches us to be attentive to God’s presence and open to the possibility of spiritual revelation even in seemingly mundane circumstances.
