On the first evening after the news of Jesus’ resurrection, two disciples traveled a road to the village of Emmaus where they were joined by a stranger. (Read the story in Luke 24:13-35.)

Perhaps it happened like this . . . the two disciples were speaking in hushed tones, not wanting to be overheard because the danger from both Roman and Temple authorities was grave. And yet, they couldn’t stop reminding each other of all they had seen and heard. When a stranger approached them and struck up a conversation, it takes two words to move the conversation beyond the news of recent days to something deeper, significant, and life giving.

The stranger is curious about what is troubling the disciples’ hearts and formulates that curiosity into a question: What things? It’s a bold move to insert himself into their private reflections. It’s a vulnerable act to think that his question might open them up to conversation. But it does! When they arrive at their destination, the two invite the stranger to join them for dinner. As bread is broken their eyes are opened! Curiosity builds connection and the presence of Christ in community is revealed! 

There’s a message for us here. The community of Christ is revealed in this gospel story when strangers get curious about one another – when the one asks what might be seen as a nosy or ignorant question and the two risk sharing a more than might feel comfortable or safe. The presence of Christ is revealed when the two invite a stranger to join them for a meal and the one accepts.

The good news of the gospel asks us to consider: who might we meet if we were curious about what troubles the hearts of those we sit next to in worship as well as those we encounter along the way? Who might we meet if we were interested in the backstories of the people with whom we pass the peace? What connection might be born if we dared risk the queasy feeling in our stomachs that comes when we risk expressing curiosity about others – what brings you here? Do you live in the area? Or when we sense grief – what’s troubling your heart today?

The risen Christ appears for the first time in Luke’s gospel as a result of curiosity that builds connection and community. And if the risen Christ can appear for two disciples on a road, where else is the risen Christ already present and longing to appear?

Lord, open our eyes to see you, our ears to hear you, and our hearts to receive you as you reveal yourself to us today, and always!