In this powerful post-Easter message, Rev. Ron McDougald explores the Road to Emmaus story from Luke 24:13-35, where two disciples walk away from Jerusalem in deep grief and disappointment—only to have the risen Jesus join them on the road without them recognizing Him at first.
Sermon Highlights:
- How grief, dashed hopes, and everyday routines can blind us to the presence of the living Christ
- Jesus opening the Scriptures (from Moses through the Prophets) to show how the Messiah had to suffer before entering His glory
- The transforming moment when Jesus broke bread at the table—revealing Himself in a familiar, ordinary act
- Personal stories of family, travel, baseball blunders, and recognizing loved ones through small habits
- A moving reflection on Johnny Cash’s song “Would You Recognize Jesus?”
- The call to “Abide with us” and to see Jesus in the hungry, the hurting, the stranger, and the least of these (Matthew 25)
Scripture Readings: 1 Peter 1:17-23 (redemption by the precious blood of Christ) Luke 24:13-35 (Road to Emmaus)
Key Question of the Day:
Would you recognize Jesus if He walked beside you on your hardest road today?
This message reminds us that the risen Lord still shows up in ordinary moments—around the table, on painful journeys, and in acts of love and grace. He is alive, and He abides with us!
