Why didn't the two believers recognize Jesus?

"As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; but they were kept from recognizing him." (Luke 24: 15-16)
Consumed with grief and dashed hopes of an earthly king, these two believers did not recognize what the Risen Christ would bring.  Not only did these two believers not recognize the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus' death they, did not even recognize Jesus himself in their midst. They were traveling in the wrong direction; away from Jerusalem and away from fellowship with other believers.
I find myself on this road often times also.  Consumed with pushing against life, hoping and praying for an easier path and totally not recognizing Jesus each step of the way; right beside me just waiting to reveal His mercy, His grace, and Himself in every detail.

 
Dad and I found these shells last summer at the beach. (Have I ever told you that is my FAVORITE week of the year!)  One carrying the other.  I keep them on our kitchen counter as a reminder of how Jesus carries each of us and reveals His love in so many ways each day.
So where on this road called life are you not recognizing Jesus?  Where is He unveiling His love and mercy?
"Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him." "Were our hearts not burning within us while he talked with us on the road?" (Luke 24: 31-32)
May we all open our eyes and feel the burning in our hearts of our risen Lord!