Wednesday of the Easter Octave
Luke 24: 13-35
Rereading our lives in the light of faith

The Gospel recounts the encounter between the Risen Jesus and the disciples on the road to Emmaus. Disheartened by His death, they leave Jerusalem, burdened by sadness and uncertainty. Though Jesus walks beside them, they do not recognise Him. He asks about their sorrow and patiently listens as they recount recent events. Then, He helps them reinterpret their experiences in the light of Scripture, transforming their grief into understanding.

Like the disciples, we often struggle with disappointments, unanswered questions, and the weight of our daily burdens. But Jesus invites us to do what the disciples did—tell Him everything. He longs for our honesty, not perfect words. When we bring our joys and struggles to Him, He can rekindle the fire in our hearts.

One way to do this is by practising an evening examination of conscience. Pope Francis encourages us to ask: How was my day? Where did I find joy? Where did I struggle? Were there hidden graces for which to give thanks? Were there wounds to surrender to Jesus? By rereading our day with Him, we begin to see our lives through His eyes, discovering His presence even in difficulties.

In Christ’s light, our struggles—whether a heavy cross, a difficult choice, or a painful mistake—can become paths to growth. But we must be open, setting aside our defences and allowing His truth to penetrate our hearts.

Let us begin today. Let us spend time with Jesus each evening, sharing our hearts with him so that, like the disciples of Emmaus, we may recognise Him walking with us. May Mary, the wise Virgin, help us to see our lives anew in the light of the Risen Lord.

© Claretian Publications, Hong Kong, China
Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025