When we hear the story of Jesus appearing to the two travelers on the way to Emmaus ( Luke 24:18) , we just presume they were two men. But some Bible scholars have suggested that Cleopas’s fellow traveler was his wife, Mary.
Since this Mary was present at the Crucifixion and a witness of the empty tomb, why would she not be out and about with her husband.
They would have been in Jerusalem for Passover, so it makes sense that she would have traveled back home to Emmaus with her husband afterward.
The Passover came, and Mary and Cleopas observed it like good Jews. They certainly must have waited in sadness, not knowing what was to happen. But we do know Mary went to the tomb to anoint the Body with the other women. Even though news spread that the tomb was empty, and the angel told the women that Jesus was resurrected, somehow this news must have escaped the couple. For they are later found on the road, back home, sad and doubting all.
As incredulous as this story is, so often human nature is hard to comprehend. How often have we been so caught up in our own misery that we cannot see the truth? It takes faith to stay on the road, with the Lord, who we know walks with us!
Image: Rowan & Irene Le Compte, Natl. Cathedral