Revisiting the Easter story and the empty tomb.
When Peter saw the empty linen wrappings and then went home wondering ‘what happened’.
Luke 24:13
That same day (the day Peter realized the tomb was empty) two of Jesus’ followers were walking to the village of Emmaus, seven miles from Jerusalem.
As they walked along they were taking about everything that had happened. As they talked and discussed these things,
Jesus himself suddenly came and began to walk with them.
But God kept them from recognizing him.
He asked them,
“What are you discussing so intently as you walk along?”
They stopped short, sadness written across their faces.
Then one of them, Cleopas, replied,
“You must be the only person in Jerusalem who hasn’t heard about all the things that have happened there in the last few days.”
“What things?” Jesus asked.
The conversation continues between Jesus and the men, and as it deepened more into their doubt, he rebukes them.
Then he brings the writings of Moses and the Scriptures to them and it was fascinating to them as they listened and walked together, and the day was turning into night.
He continued to walk with them and taught them the old prophecies and they didn’t want it to end.
So they invited him to stay the night at their house as it was getting late and they needed to get home.
Luke 24:30
As they sat down to eat, he took the bread and blessed it.
Then he broke it and gave it to them.
Suddenly, their eyes were opened, and they recognized him.
And at that moment, he disappeared!
(Can you IMAGINE?)
And they said to each other, “Didn’t our hearts burn within us as he talked with us on the road and explained the Scriptures to us?”
I think this is so important to note and remember.
First, they were not able to recognize him till God felt they were ready to receive that truth.
Second, even when their hearts were searching and grieving it still wasn’t time for them.
Third, they had eyes that were open but not eyes that saw… spiritually.
HOW is it for us then?
Do we see, because we have the written word in front of us?
Or do we see ‘because we believe’ from our heart’s perspective. 
I believe God can keep us from recognizing and believing in him until the moment is right.
Only HE knows the condition of our hearts and whether we are open to believe or receive. 
If given the opportunity, will we know him if he comes into our presence?
Just a few questions as we wrap up the Easter story.