Today is the Third Sunday of Easter, and we are worshipping at home. Our last Sunday to be physically in our church (Belmont UMC, Nashville) was March 1, eight weeks ago. We have still been able to worship through the Facebook Live broadcast of our service, which has provided a significant way for us to remain part of our congregation.

Today's gospel lesson is Luke 24:13-35, commonly referred to as "The Walk to Emmaus". Two travelers encounter a stranger on their way from Jerusalem to Emmaus, about 7 miles away. When the strangers asks about their conversation, one responds with "are you the only one" who doesn't know what has happened with the crucifixion of Jesus, and the emerging account of his resurrection. Even without the internet, and news media of every kind, the travelers are astonished that the stranger is ignorant of current events. But then the story flips with the stranger sharing the long view of the Biblical story and how the current event is part of God's actions. And then he pauses to share a meal with them, and they recognize the stranger is the risen Jesus. The kernel here for me, among other matters and insights, is that the study of scriptures is not just about the past, but is also critical for us to see God's actions now and in the future. In the midst of this pandemic, we need the long view about truth and God's care for all of humanity. And, oh how we need to break bread together! 

This image is from Acadia National Park in Maine, September 2018, just outside of Bar Harbor.