In the last chapter of Luke’s gospel, we read the account of two disciples, one named Cleopas, on a trip to Emmaus – about 7 miles from Jerusalem. As they walked, they spoke with one another; trying to make sense of the events that had transpired in recent days: how the chief priests and rulers had delivered Jesus to be condemned to death, and crucified Him; yet, they were hoping that it was He who was going to redeem Israel.

The resurrected Jesus joined them on their journey, and inquired about their conversation. When they had expressed their confusion, the Lord rebuked them for their disbelief and ignorance of the Scriptures (the former probably a result of the latter). He then expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself. As they approached their destination, Jesus indicated that He intended to travel on. Although the disciples still did not recognize Him, they implored Him to stay with them for the night. Now it came to pass, the Bible tells us, that as He sat at the table with them, He took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. At that moment, their eyes were opened and they knew Him; and He vanished from their sight. That same hour, they rose and went all the way back to Jerusalem to tell the other disciples about the things that had happened on the road, and how He was known to them in the breaking of bread.

Today, you may be trying to make sense of the events of the past week or so. Perhaps your preoccupation with circumstances is preventing you from recognizing Jesus. Your observance of the Lord’s Table – Holy Communion – should not be just another church ritual. In the breaking of bread, Christ is made known to us. For on the night that He was betrayed, the Lord took bread, blessed and broke it and said, “This is My body which is broken for you.” For you. He took the cup after supper and said, “This cup is the New Covenant in My blood.” Lest we forget Who Jesus is, we do this in remembrance of Him. We remember that He who knew no sin became sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. In the breaking of bread we come to realize Jesus’ sacrificial love for us.