Have You Noted the Sudden Change in Jesus?

The sudden change the disciples saw in Jesus is recorded by Mark: “They were on their way to Jerusalem, with Jesus leading the way, and the disciples were astonished, while those who followed were afraid (Mark 10:32).”

Luke records that Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem and the Samaritans did not welcome him because he was heading for Jerusalem (Luke 9:51–53). A prophetic passage about Jesus reads, “Therefore have I set my face like flint” (Isaiah 50:7).

What does all this mean? It means that following Christ means following him to Jerusalem. And what awaited Jesus there? His certain death on the cross. And what was Jesus’ dominant attitude as he travelled towards the cross? One of fixed and immovable purpose.

So as disciples of Jesus we too are called to die. That is what we don’t understand. We would love a Jesus who will build us our kingdoms on earth. But we don’t understand the cross.

What are we to die to? Whatever God does not see good in us. It includes our sinful nature, our pride, our selfish and worldly ambitions.

And what should be our attitude? The same as that of Jesus. A fierce, determined, purposeful walk to the cross. But, not many of us are called to die. Instead we are called to live the crucified life. It takes courage to do that. And we need the grace of Jesus to do that.

And then we can say with Paul, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me” (Galatians 2:20). It takes a lifetime to learn to live the crucified life. It goes against our natural desires. But as you follow Jesus to Jerusalem, you have no other choice, do you?

Do You Consider It Incredible That God Raises the Dead?
“Son of Man, Can These Bones Live?”
“Therefore Go!” Have You Obeyed the Command?
For more posts, see following categories/pages:
Resurrection Series
Manna–Inspiring OT Daily Devotions Complete List!
Pathways of Prayer
Process Patterns
Everlasting Love–Some Inspiring Posts for You to Read

Insight
Be dead to sin. Let Christ live in you.

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