Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread. (Luke 24:35)

A volunteer missionary was returning from Africa to her home in Ohio. Her brother was doing a mission internship in Austria, but time and money did not permit her to arrange to visit him. However, she and a traveling companion had some free time to do some sightseeing in Venice. While standing beside one of the canals, she was suddenly interrupted when a young man called her name. It was her brother who had heard her laugh and said to himself, “That is my sister’s laugh.” He immediately identified her presence by the familiar sound of her laughter.

Jesus came to the disciples and through the familiar scene of breaking bread, His presence became openly known to them. Was it His gentleness, His prayerfulness, or perhaps the memory of another time when He had broken bread for them in a similar manner. Whatever it was, truth came in the person of Jesus Christ. Their hearts “burned” when He opened their eyes to scripture, and truth was confirmed by His very presence.

The early church, while persecuted in the open, held various signs by which others would identify them. The most prominent was a simple drawing of a fish. Today, we have the same opportunities for identification with Christ. We can demonstrate it by our faith and trust, or compassion for others or our willingness to do what is right when all those around us might laugh and say “Everybody does it!” Being identified with Jesus Christ is made known by imitating His life and doing things the Jesus would do them.

God of love, walk with me when my walk is going against the tide, but still going in Your direction!