NKJV - 16 But their eyes were restrained, so that they did not know Him.
NIV - 16 But they were kept from recognizing him.
Divine Disguise
I have always been intrigued by this story of the two disciples who meet, talk and walk with, but don’t recognize, the resurrected Jesus, while walking with Him along the Road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35). Also intriguing is the the initial greeting of the resurrected Jesus to Mary Magdalene at the Tomb (John 20:11-18), who mistook Him at first for the gardner. Even the disciples fishing were taken by surprise when the resurrected Jesus called to them from the shore (John 21:1-14). However, it’s understandable as they were far from the shore, the lighting wasn’t the best and they were tired from fishing all night, but catching nothing. Not to mention who would expect Jesus, who to them was dead, to be on the shore calling to them?
How could these special witnesses not recognize their Savior, even when they were standing right next to Him?
Benevolent Blindness
The “restrained” ability of the disciples on the Road to Emmaus to see Jesus walking right next to them was not a punishment, or a trivial test. Instead it was godly gift that allowed them to be able to listen to and focus more completely on the Savior’s teachings and their truths, rather than potentially blindly listening to His words simply because they knew it was Jesus. This is a crucial lesson for each of us as we are each called to both serve and shine for Him, even when we do not physically see Him. As such, our mortal stewardship requires the acquiring of this greater faith, especially in a world drowning in a demise when belief relies so much on sight alone.
Sometimes Jesus “hides” Himself from us, not to hurt us, but so that we can learn to have greater faith in, trust in and reliance on Him and His words.
Righteous Recognition
Eventually, they each had their moments of righteous recognition. The two disciples through the familiar action of Jesus breaking bread. Mary Magdalene recognized her Savior’s voice when He spoke to her. And the fishing disciples—even through the distance, darkness and discouragement—eventually recognized Jesus through His miracle of profound provision.
Sometimes we can be so distracted and discouraged by the world’s artificial lights and noise that we do not see the guiding, guarding, providing light and love of our Savior.
Whether you see, or talk with Jesus physically or not, know that He is with you. Know that He desires and needs you to have a greater faith so you can do a greater work. Thus, He wants you to be able to rely on His Spirit to guide and guard you even when and especially when you do not “see” every answer or footstep. Nevertheless, as you learn to walk, live and serve Him in faith, you will not only recognize your resurrected Savior, but you will “learn of Him” and have a real relationship with Him. You will feel His love for you and you will not only be willing to follow Him more faithfully, but to also become more like Him and as such you will be an even greater instrument in His hands to help bring the world His truths.