Jesus sets out for Jerusalem
Pray
Begin with prayer, opening your heart to His Word and Spirit.
Read Luke 9: 51-55
51 As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem. 52 And he sent messengers on ahead, who went into a Samaritan village to get things ready for him; 53 but the people there did not welcome him, because he was heading for Jerusalem. 54 When the disciples James and John saw this, they asked, “Lord, do you want us to call fire down from heaven to destroy them[a]?” 55 But Jesus turned and rebuked them.
Reflect
Jesus is now resolutely headed for Jerusalem and on the way, he chooses a Samaritan village to visit. Samaritans are a mixed race, and there is bitter enmity between them and the Jews. Jesus sends messengers ahead to prepare for His arrival, but His visit is not welcome. Even the Samaritans deny Jesus the hospitality that is such an engrained part of their culture. The rejection of Jesus has begun and those journeying with him need to prepare themselves for the same. The disciples’ vengeful response is far from that of Jesus, and He rebukes them for it.
Closing prayer
Father, forgive us when we focus on the wrongdoing of others and how they should be punished. Help us to be more like Jesus and fill us with Your unconditional love. Amen.