He Set His Face Toward Jerusalem

"When the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem." ~ Luke 9:51

As Holy Week kicked off yesterday, this verse shows us Jesus's resolve to march towards excruciating pain, suffering, betrayal and humiliation.

Jesus knew what was waiting for Him, and He set His face to go to Jerusalem anyways. He did not at all back away from the cross, but walked towards it.

Why?

Because He was obedient to the Father's will, even when it meant a road of suffering. Because He had the joy set before Him - the joy of seeing His bride spotless and beautiful, praising His grace. Because He loves us.

Yes, for all these reasons, Jesus set His face towards Jerusalem.

How should we respond this morning?

1) In gratitude. Thank Jesus right now for enduring the cross and the suffering so that you might be saved.

2) With hope. While Jesus was humiliated, He is now exalted, seated at the right hand of the throne of God. We have a great hope because of the resurrection of Jesus from the dead.

3) By following. Sometimes, God's will for us will be a hard path, filled with trials and suffering. But we must not back away from it, knowing that we are on the same road as our Savior, who faithfully walked it.

May you be blessed this Holy Week as you reflect on the sufferings of Christ!

~ Pastor Alexander