Buechner: The Surprise Visits of the Resurrected Jesus
The Road to Emmaus
“Jesus is apt to come into the very midst of life at its most real and inescapable. Not in a blaze of unearthly light, not in the midst of a sermon, not in the throes of some kind of religious daydream, but … at supper time or walking along a road.
This is the element that all stories about Christ’s return to life share in common. He never came from above, but always in the middle of people, in the middle of real life and the questions that real life asks.
—Frederick Buechner, originally published in The Magnificent Defeat.
Buechner describes how we see Jesus in our daily lives. We don't need to go on a grand pilgrimage or visit an old cathedral. God is all around us in our everyday moments. Our role as spiritual friends is to help each other recognize God in our daily lives.
These resurrection stories offer many clues about where and how to find Jesus.
Jesus’s resurrection appearances surprise the disciples on the road to Emmaus, Mary at the tomb, the disciples in the upper room, and the disciples while fishing. Jesus meets people where they are.
Jesus is often not immediately recognized, but Jesus recognizes his disciples! Their ability to see God's presence is hindered. The trauma of the world around them and Jesus’ death have blinded them.
Jesus engages in everyday activities such as cooking, eating, and walking.
Jesus appears to be an ordinary person but can do extraordinary things, such as walking through walls.
Jesus still bears his wounds, yet they are healed.
Jesus feeds us.
Jesus calls us by name.
Jesus appears to ordinary people.
Except for Jesus’ appearance to Paul on the road to Damascus, he reveals himself to those who know him best.
Most importantly, Jesus speaks of truth, love, and peace.
If you want to learn more about Jesus' resurrection, consider these stories.
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