Rembrandt’s first Supper at Emmaus (1628)
On the afternoon of that first Easter Day, two downcast and confused disciples are escaping from Jerusalem to nearby Emmaus, deep in conversation, when they are joined by a stranger who shares amazing insights into their experiences. They ask him to stay with them as evening approaches, and they share a meal.
As the stranger breaks the bread, and offers the traditional blessing, the disciples suddenly realise who the stranger really is – not some random passer-by, but the master who they have just seen put to a cruel death. The picture above shows that very moment: the disciple in the dark foreground falls on his knees, the other recoils in amazement, his eyes “popping out like organ stops”.
Rembrandt’s Jesus’ Disappearance From Emmaus (1648-49)
But, immediately their eyes are opened, Christ vanishes from their sight. What a jolt they must have received! But they recall how they had felt their hearts burn within them as he was teaching them on the road and, re-energised, return post haste to Jerusalem to share the good news. There their experience is confirmed, when they are told “It is true! The Lord has risen.” [For more about the Emmaus journey, read Luke 24 and the study note at this link]