v 51. As the time drew near for him to ascend to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.
Jesus faced opposition from Jewish leaders, mistrust from the Samaritans as he passed through their villages, and even misunderstanding from the disciples who could not grasp his teaching about his coming crucifixion. Knowing what awaited him in Jerusalem he remained utterly focussed – ‘Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem’. For all his love and gentle, gracious dealings with people, Jesus started this journey to Jerusalem with a steely determination to complete the ministry the Father had entrusted to him.
Other gospels record how Jesus faced this journey as his walk to the cross. Luke alone takes us beyond the cross, the grave and even the resurrection. He is able to give us a glimpse of what was in Jesus’ mind. It was destination glory that carried him along – that was in the forefront of Jesus’ focussed determination. In Hebrews 12 we read:
Let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joyawaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honour beside God’s throne. Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people; then you won’t become weary and give up.
Jesus was totally focussed on his ministry and it carried him through the darkest of days. His grace will enable us together to do the same.