On to Jerusalem
Opening Prayer
Jesus, following You involves many decisions. Reassure me with Your love.
Read LUKE 13:31–35
For additional translations of the passage, use this link to Bible Gateway.
[31] At that time some Pharisees came to Jesus and said to him, “Leave this place and go somewhere else. Herod wants to kill you.” [32] He replied, “Go tell that fox, ‘I will keep on driving out demons and healing people today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will reach my goal.’ [33] In any case, I must press on today and tomorrow and the next day-for surely no prophet can die outside Jerusalem! [34] “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing. [35] Look, your house is left to you desolate. I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.'” Scripture taken from the THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION, NIV Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Reflect
What are the elements of Jesus’ lament?Here’s a puzzle. Are the Pharisees suddenly on Jesus’ side? Or do they perhaps just want him out of the way? Their relationship with Herod was a delicate one and they may well have been afraid that if Jesus disturbed the status quo their own position would be threatened. At any rate the incident gives Jesus an opportunity to underline what he is about. At the heart of his ministry is a deep concern for people. This is shown as he heals people and frees them from demonic powers (32). It is seen in his lament over Jerusalem (34,35), where we catch another insight into the depths of God’s love. He longs that people will respond to him and find security in relationship with him. But as we saw yesterday people choose to go their own way—and they pay the price. So because he cares, Jesus is heading to Jerusalem to give his life for them (33). This and only this will guarantee relationship with God and ultimate security. The wonderful truth is that this is why he has come and nothing will divert him. Not the Pharisees, not Herod, nothing.
Apply
Think of someone you know who does not yet follow Jesus. Pray for them with the love and concern Jesus shows here.
Closing prayer
Savior, move my heart with the passion that is in Your own, a passion that made You willing to pay the price.
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