I have been thinking about the two disciples on the road to Emmaus. So much has been written about the two men and how “he was made known to them in the breaking of the bread.”
I imagine Jesus having a great time knowing he wasn’t recognized. He converses with them, chides them, even plays the fool so their doubts are made clear, paving the way for the teacher to invite the students into a greater understanding of the Truth.
But one thing always bothered me about that story. As a young man, I was always a bit dumbfounded that Jesus didn’t introduce himself.
As a parent, I realize that He seldom does.
Instead, we find God in the laughter of the children who are young enough to still experience joy while the adults around them settle for happiness.
We find God in the man on the corner asking for money – but only if we are aware enough that the children are watching and switching lanes carries as powerful a message as rolling the window down and offering what we can.
We find God in the springtime when we are surrounded by new life, but only if we pause from medicating ourselves against the pollen.
We find Him in holding hands, a good night kiss, a blessing on the forehead, and a hug instead of a shout.
We find Him in the messiness of house and home.
We find Him in the busyness of work.
And we find Him in the people we love – and those we struggle to love – if only our eyes are open.
Open my eyes, Lord. Help me to see your face.
Artwork by He Qi