The Searchers

Scholar Joseph Loconte examines one of the most remarkable passages of Scripture, an exchange in the gospel of Luke between two disciples of Jesus of Nazareth-uttered just days after his execution-about the longings of the human heart and the mysterious purposes of God. Historian and journalist Joseph Loconte examines the role of religion in contemporary society against the ancient dialogue overheard on the road to Emmaus in Luke's gospel. Every human heart has a natural longing for "home," and these witnesses to the life and death of Jesus of Nazareth serve as a rich example of that universal yearning. Along the way, Loconte scrutinizes not only the challenges posed by popular skeptics, but also those created by counterfeit religion. Whether Christian or Muslim, priestly sex scandals or Islamic "honor killings," Loconte takes a sober look at the failings of those who claim God is on their side. The author never loses sight, however, of the profound influence that an authentic relationship with Jesus Christ can have on individuals and society. Ultimately,readers will see how the human desire for meaning, purpose, and love can lead us to our true home. There are still reasons to believe, reasons embedded in a remarkable conversation on the road to Emmaus.