The Good 'ol Days

Date: Tuesday, August 18, 2026

Check out this video of the second half of Luke from the Bible Project as we wrap-up our survey of Luke's gospel.

Two grieving travelers walk seven miles from Jerusalem to Emmaus, rehashing the worst weekend of their lives. Then a stranger rolls up beside them. It’s Jesus. They don’t recognize Him, not because He’s disguised, but because grief and distraction has a way of narrowing our vision to only what we expect to see. It isn’t until He breaks the bread that “their eyes were opened” and they realize the risen Christ had been walking with them the entire time.

Luke is reminding us of Jesus’ presence, even in the middle of our confusion and distraction. The church has always treasured this scene. Eastern icons and Western altarpieces often refer to it, because it names something universal: God is often nearest exactly when we feel most alone.

I’ve heard hospital chaplains describe something similar, sitting with a family in the worst hour of their lives, and only months later hearing them say, “I didn’t know it then, but Christ was in that room.” That’s Emmaus, still happening. Imagine if we could experience His presence while we're still in the moment. The truth is, we can.

Devotional Prompts:

Can you recall a season of grief or confusion where you later recognized God had been present all along?
What practices can help open your eyes to Christ’s nearness to you today?
How does the disciples’ shift from sorrow to “great joy” speak hope into your life today?

Prayer: Risen Lord, walk beside me on my own road to Emmaus. Open my eyes in the breaking of the bread, and turn my sorrow into the joy of knowing You are near. Amen.