He set his face

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“When the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem.”
(Luke 9:51, ESV)

Today marks the start of Holy Week as we follow Jesus’ journey towards the events of Easter. Over these coming days we will walk with Jesus through the various points of the week, to Maundy Thursday, to the cross of Good Friday and the empty grave of Easter Sunday.

But as we begin, it’s helpful for us to remember that Jesus’ journey did not start on the Monday of Holy Week. Far from it. In fact, Luke reminds us of this even before the halfway point of his gospel. After the transfiguration, where Jesus is displayed in his wonderful glory, Jesus starts to talk to his disciples about his ultimate destination. Luke records that “when the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem.”

Jesus is looking beyond Easter to his ascension and the giving of the Holy Spirit. But Jesus knew that the path to Pentecost lies through the cross and resurrection. In full knowledge of this, Jesus set his face toward Jerusalem and toward his death on the cross. He was full and completely determined to die, for you and for me.

Indeed, Jesus’ journey has begun much earlier than this. Before the beginning of time he knew each one of us and loved each one of us. He determined to love us so much that he would lay down his life for us. That is the extent of Jesus love for you: he set his face to go to Jerusalem.

Lord Jesus, thank you that you were willing to go to the cross because of your great love for me. Help me to understand just a little more of that love and determination this week. Give me insight and understanding as I marvel at the lengths you would go to for love. Amen.

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