April 23: The Day of the Lord

Today’s Gospel (Luke 24, 13-35) offers a template (or model) for the Mass. At the celebration of the Mass, we “recognize” Jesus (as did the two disciples “on the way”): in our shared journey which has brought us to Mass, in the Scripture readings, in the homily, and in our community prayers and songs. In all of this, we lift our minds and hearts to God. Most especially, in the Eucharist (“the breaking of the bread”), we encounter Jesus – alive and truly present.

Even with this model (or template), we can still miss “the moment” because we get so easily distracted. Admittedly, it is hard to remember that Jesus is always with us, always available, always present.

The Gospel tells us that “Jesus vanished from their sight,” but He did not disappear. He remained with them (and He remains with us) because the bread broken has become His flesh – and so, He has become one with us, and we have become one with Him. How amazing is that!

Again, the disciples’ experience on the road to Emmaus and at their home helps us realize that Jesus is always with us. We often will find Him when we least expect Him. In the week ahead, let us remember that we encounter Jesus consciously and with greater awareness when we “break bread” with Him and with others at Mass – and let us be sure to carry that awareness with us into our daily lives.

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Bishop Robert Barron on Emmaus: https://www.wordonfire.org/videos/sermons/emmaus-and-genesis/

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