Today’s Gospel tells the story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus. Together, they made their way back to their hometown, downcast and disillusioned. So great was their discouragement, in fact, that they failed to see Jesus walking in their midst. It was not until the breaking of the bread that “their eyes were opened and they recognized him.”
This story reminds us of the Risen Christ’s presence in our lives, especially in the most holy Eucharist. It also reminds us of the importance of community in the Christian journey. We, members of the Body of Christ, walk together in His presence. A Christian community is that group of people with whom we experience the wonders of God and also the group to whom we turn to and say, “Were not our hearts burning within us?” Let us give thanks for the gift of community.