Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

In Luke's story of the Road to Emmaus, (Luke 24:13-35), the Risen Christ becomes present to Cleopas and an unnamed companion. He walks with them on the road, but they do not recognize him. Telling the story of Jesus' death to this apparent stranger, the friends feel their hearts "burning within them," but it is not until they stop for a meal that this stranger is identified. As the stranger takes bread and breaks it, they recognize him as Jesus. Then just as soon as he is recognized, he disappears. 
    The story reveals the disorientation and surprise of the encounter, and paints the pictures of a post-resurrection world in which the Risen Christ continues to transform the lives of his followers. His presence is hope-giving, life-generating. The disciples' gloom is transformed into joy, empowering them for ministry to the world in Jesus' name.
    We are a Eucharistic community at St. Alban's, experiencing Christ's presence in "breaking of the bread', that we may learn to recognize him whenever our hearts are strengthened, too.  Let us be open to all the ways the Risen Christ appears to us this Easter season, both in the sacrament and in our lives, that we, like those early disciples, may be transformed by his presence for ministry in the world.