Thursday 12 May 2011

"What are you discussing with each other while you walk along?"(Lk24:17)

Two disciples were "talking and discussing." Greek word translated here "to discuss" is "suzeteo," which means "seek together." They were examining their experience together.

Then, a stranger showed up and asked "What are you discussing with each other?" Cleopas answered him, "Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem who does not know the things that have taken place there in these days?" He explained the details.

When two disciples talked enough, the stranger started to explain what is written in the Bible. They had a supper together in an inn. The stranger disappeared. Then two disciples noticed who the stranger was, saying "Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was opening the scriptures to us?"

Through the stranger who heard their sorrow, sharing the time and space, two disciples met Christ in resurrection. As a stranger, Christ is walking with us, inviting us to a new way.

(Summary of the sermon on 1 May 2011, at Sado Church, United Church of Christ in Japan)