Life is full of mystery. Even the simplest things we know can turn around and become mystery to us. It makes us think. It makes us want to be on our own to sit and ponder; other times it makes us take a walk with a friend or colleague to discuss it. Sometimes, we feel a little wiser and more informed, other times we are left with more uncertainties. Even in the wider perspective of our spiritual journey as Christians, we often need to wrestle with the mystery of faith that Christ has died, he is risen and that he will come back again. We need each other, every now and again to discuss, not only our faith but our fears, anxiety, challenges, disappointments and doubts, just as the disciples did on the road to Emmaus. It is in such walk of witness and journey together that we often encounter each other as well as feel the presence of Jesus who has always assured us that whenever two or more are gathered in my name, I am present.
For the disciples after the death of Jesus, the party was over. Ambition meets its dead end; high towered hope meets a devastating and shattering earthquake. Everyone must find his way. Some were beginning to head off from Jerusalem where their hope, apparently, has met its Waterloo. Two disciples were spotted discussing about this incident. They could not understand how the death of Jesus could be seen in any other way rather than a tragic incident. But Jesus, like any silent participant in an interesting discussion, couldn’t hold his breath forever. He breaks his silence; he speaks out and asks them what they were talking about. He takes them back to the Scripture and the Prophecy of Old, “was it not ordained that the Christ should suffer death and on the third day rise again?” It was not until the breaking of bread that they were able to recognise Jesus.
It may sound like a simple and common greeting of the time, “Peace be with you!” This was not just greeting but a gift to a people agitated, intimidated, hopeless and helpless; in fear and in doubt. It is a gift of consolation to a people who mourn for their loss. It is a mandate given to a people by their leader who has been unjustly treated. He does not ask them to take up arms and fight but to possess peace and share it even with their enemies.
He asks them to look at his hands and feet. Just like last Sunday’s gospel, Jesus shows his wounds. Sometimes, it is important for people to see our wounds and weaknesses. Weakness is not necessarily complete powerlessness; might and power is not necessarily a true exhibition of strength. It is the same Jesus, the wounded and the healed; who died and resurrected; He is not a ghost but Spirit. Ghosts appear and disappear, leaving us more agitated for fear that they may harm us. The Spirit is always present with us, giving us comfort and courage. Jesus’ word to his disciples remains: Do this in remembrance of me. And when you do, let it be done in love for me. Jesus is recognised in the Eucharistic breaking of bread. This can be our hope when we seem to have forgotten and lost our tracks; when we doubt; when we are discouraged and when we need healing and comfort. Our test can become a testimony. “You are witnesses to this.”
