Two followers of Jesus were downhearted as they walked along the road to Emmaus after their leader had been crucified. Their hopes were dashed and they were beyond discouraged. Then Jesus himself came up and walked beside them, but they were kept from recognizing him. Jesus drew them into a discussion about their understanding of what had happened. Then he explained to them from the Scriptures why the events had to occur the way they did.

Later, they began to share a meal with Jesus. “When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?” (Luke 24:30-32).

We don’t know for sure what triggered their recognition of Jesus. Perhaps it was his mannerisms at the table. Maybe as he handled the bread the scars on his hands became more noticeable. In any case, their outlook changed dramatically after recognizing that this Jesus who had been dead was now alive.

Perhaps life has you discouraged. If that is the case, maybe you need to take a good close look at Jesus, our crucified and risen Savior, to help open your eyes and set your heart on fire for him once again!