If you look carefully, today’s Gospel reveals that the Mass is a privileged place where we encounter the risen Lord. Jesus joins his disciples as they walk along the road to Emmaus, just as he meets us in the entrance process at Mass. Then Jesus explains the Scriptures to them, just as he does through the priest or the deacon during the Liturgy of the Word. Finally, he is made known to them in the breaking of the bread, just as he makes himself present to us in his Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity in the Eucharist that we share.

• Reflection by Elizabeth Hansen in “Celebrating Sunday for Catholic Families 2024-25” published by Liturgy Training Publications.