The journey begins in Luke 9. Jesus was in Galilee, near Bethsaida. He feeds over 5000 people with five loaves of bread and two fishes. He predicts his rejection, death and burial. Few days later, he heals a child with an unclean spirit and settles an argument between the disciples and gives away a revolutionary principle: “For he who is least among you all–he is the greatest.”
Luke 9v51 And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he steadfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem. From this point onwards Luke uniquely records a number of experiences and lessons that Jesus gave to His disciples on the Road to Jerusalem. So as we walk with Him down the Jordan valley and then up to Jerusalem, it seems he has a few lessons for each of us.
If we look closely, we learn that to follow in His steps, he requires our:
Unswerving Resolve Luke 9v57-62, Luke 13v22-30
Some were prepared to say that they were followers of Christ, but were not prepared to put him first in everything including home and family. Jesus said no one who looked back was fit for the Kingdom. Many would call him Lord but he did not know them – their words and lives were empty.
Unencumbered Hearing Luke 10v38-42
Martha was busy serving, but Mary sat at his feet to hear his word. Jesus said that Mary had chosen the better part. Are we too busy in our lives, to choose any less?
Unreserved Thanksgiving Luke 17v11-19
While 10 undeserving lepers were cleansed, only one returned to glorify God and worship loudly. If the ‘majority’ determines your vote, you might very well be in the wrong party. Unequivocal Response Luke 19v1-10
Zacchaeus received Jesus joyfully when he asked to stay at his house. His donation to the poor and restoration of any false gain showed his repentance and faith. Today His offer still stands for all of us stuck on the sycamore trees. What is our response?
Unconditional Faithfulness Luke 19v12
The call in the parable to “occupy till I come” was obeyed by two of three servants who were considered faithful, commended and rewarded. One wasted his talent, because he thought he was given too little. How much has the Master given you, and what are you doing with it?
Unhindered Availability Luke 19v29-3
Finally, the owners of the donkey and colt at Bethphage, did not resist their colt being taken and used. We are told, “The Lord has need of them” were the only words they needed to hear to let go of what they had. What do you own, that the Lord has need of?
When Jesus is part way down the Hosanna Rd, in the middle of the loud joyous praise, he reaches the point where he could see the city of Jerusalem. He stops the procession, and looks at the city. There were tears in his eyes. He saw the beauty of the city and its people and their desire for peace – but foresaw their awaiting destruction because they did not recognise or accept him as their Messiah. He still has much reason to weep today. To see billions of humans charging ahead on the highway to destruction. But those of us, whose eyes are opened, are called to follow him, in his steps, on the road to the Heavenly Jerusalem.
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