Jesus chose the road to Jerusalem, knowing what waited there.
“And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem,”Luke 9:51 (KJV)
What does “Set face” mean in Luke 9:51?
The King James says He stedfastly set His face, which means He turned toward Jerusalem with firm determination. The time when He would be received up points to His death, resurrection, and return to the Father.
Going deeper
From this verse on, Luke's Gospel is a journey. Jesus is heading toward Jerusalem, and He knows what will happen there. He does not drift into the cross or stumble into it. He sets His face toward it. The words picture a person who has made up his mind and is not turning back. Yet He continues to teach, heal, and welcome people along the way. Resolve did not make Him hard. It made Him steady.
This fifth week of Lent begins the final stretch toward Holy Week. It is a good moment to ask where you need resolve. There may be a commitment you have let slip, a conversation you have been avoiding, or a habit you started this season and are tempted to drop. Ask Jesus for the steadiness He showed. Set your face toward the next faithful step, and go, trusting that He walks the road with you.
Reflect
Where do you need steady resolve this week, and what is the next faithful step?
Pray
Lord Jesus, thank You for setting Your face toward the cross for us. Give me steady resolve for the road ahead. In Jesus' name, amen.
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