In the Gospel of Luke, we find two disciples traveling to the village of Emmaus, Cleopas, and another disciple whose name we do not know. This was some time after the resurrection of Jesus. As they walked, Jesus joined them, but they did not recognize Him at first because their eyes were “restrained.” It’s an intriguing story that illustrates how we may fail to recognize the significance of something or someone in our lives until some form of intervention occurs. The passage is found in Luke 24:13-351NIV New International Version Translations. Here is a summary of the passage:
Two disciples were traveling to the village of Emmaus. Jesus joined them on their journey, but they did not recognize Him. They discussed the recent events of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. Jesus explained the Scriptures to them, revealing how they pointed to Him. When they reached Emmaus, they invited Jesus to stay with them. During the meal, Jesus broke bread, and their eyes were opened, recognizing Him. Jesus then disappeared from their sight.
The transformation in the disciples on the road to Emmaus was both spiritual and cognitive. We might ask, how can the human mind blind someone to the obvious? To witness this phenomenon in action, consider checking out this Facebook story. Hopefully, it is still available. (https://www.facebook.com/reel/494541032988706) An organization called Shield of Strength produced videos featuring very young children who were born with dysfunctional eyesight. These children had not been able to interact with the world around them due to their poor vision. Their view of the world, from birth, had been “restrained.” Thanks to modern medical treatments, these children were given corrective glasses that allowed them to see the world clearly for the first time. In the videos, some of the children initially resisted wearing the glasses. Eventually, like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, they responded with wonder as they experienced their environment with clear vision for the first time.
I could not think of a more appropriate example to show you than the video/story about the children. We are not unlike these children, limited in our ability to see the love of God in the world around us. As Jesus explained the Scriptures to the two disciples, their hearts were opened to understand the deeper meaning of the prophecies concerning the Messiah. This spiritual enlightenment prepared them to recognize Jesus. When Jesus broke bread with them, it was a familiar action that triggered their recognition. This act of breaking bread was significant and reminiscent of the Last Supper, which helped them realize who He was. Ultimately, it was a divine act that opened their eyes. The Bible says, “Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him” (Luke 24:31), indicating that God allowed them to see Jesus for who He truly was (restraints lifted).
The disciples’ transformation on the road to Emmaus is like the concept of being “born again.” Just as the disciples experienced a spiritual awakening, being born again involves rebirth and awakening to the truth of the gospel. The disciples’ eyes were opened to recognize Jesus as Lord and Savior. This realization often triggers a profound shift in perspective, leading to a new level of understanding. Both events involve a divine act of revelation. In the case of the disciples, God opened their eyes to see Jesus.
Similarly, being born again is the work of the Holy Spirit, who reveals the truth of Jesus to an individual’s heart. The encounter with Jesus transformed the disciples’ lives, bringing them joy and renewed purpose. Being born again also results in a transformed life, characterized by a new identity in Christ and a desire to live according to God’s will.
You can imagine the transformation for those young children who could now see the world around them. Now, every child could see the faces of their devoted parents, who had lovingly nurtured them since their birth. The distortions they lived with had been finally removed. The look on each young face was one of amazement, overwhelmed by the gift of clarity and detail of their surroundings. The same is true when we finally see who Jesus is. Our response to God’s forgiveness and grace can be just as significant. Whether it is a child who sees for the first time or a repentant adult who finally understands who Jesus is, profound things happen.
- Spiritual Rebirth: Often described as being “born again” (John 3:3), it signifies a new beginning and a fresh start in one’s spiritual journey.
- Forgiveness and Cleansing: Embracing Jesus results in the forgiveness of sins and a feeling of being purified from past wrongdoings (1 John 1:9).
- Indwelling of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit comes to live within the believer, guiding, comforting, and empowering them (John 14:16–17).
- New Identity: Believers have a new identity as children of God (John 1:12). This new identity provides a sense of belonging and purpose.
- Transformation of Character: The Holy Spirit operates within believers to produce the fruit of the Spirit, including love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22–23).
- Renewed Mind: Believers experience a transformation in their thinking and attitudes as they align their minds with God’s truth (Romans 12:2).
- Desire for Holiness: We desire to live a life that is pleasing to God and turn away from sinful behaviors (1 Peter 1:15-16).
- Love for Others: Accepting Jesus often leads to a greater love and compassion for others, reflecting Jesus’ love (John 13:34–35).
- Hope and Assurance: Believers gain a sense of hope and assurance about their future, including the promise of eternal life (John 3:16).
- Community and Fellowship: Joining a community of fellow believers provides support, encouragement, and opportunities for growth (Hebrews 10:24–25).
These transformations are part of the ongoing process of sanctification, where believers grow to become more like Christ over time. It’s a journey filled with grace, growth, and deepening faith. Accepting Jesus is like getting a new pair of glasses that let you see the world as God Himself sees it.
Hymn – Amazing Grace [Click for the history of the hymn]
“Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind but now I see.”~ John Newton, written 1772; 1st published 1779
Contemplations
- Who is Jesus to you personally, and how has your understanding of Him changed over time?
- Ideas to Explore: Your testimony. How did you discover Jesus?
- What are some key moments in the Gospels that reveal Jesus’ identity and mission to you? How do these moments impact your faith?
- Ideas to Explore: What turned on the light bulb? Were there key events or Bible verses?
- How does Jesus’ teaching on love and forgiveness challenge or inspire you in your daily life?
- Ideas to Explore: What are your favorite parables? Stories about Jesus?
- In what ways can we see Jesus’ divinity and humanity in the stories of the New Testament?
- Ideas to Explore: Jesus as a human, compared to Jesus as God.
- How does this dual nature affect your relationship with Him?
- Ideas to Explore: Get personal, why do you believe He is both human and God?
- What steps can you take to deepen your relationship with Jesus and grow in your faith journey?
- Ideas to Explore: Is your relationship personal? What does a personal relationship with Jesus look like?
