The Time Drew Near
Reading: Genesis 23-24; Luke 9
As the time drew near for him to ascend to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem. (Luke 9:51 NLT)
As the time drew near for Jesus to ascend to heaven… That’s the “Big Picture” point of view! Actually, from a “feet on the ground, living it out, one day at a time” point of view, it reads more like: “As the time drew near for Jesus to be hated, betrayed, falsely accused, illegally tried, beaten and tortured, then murdered in the most agonizing and painful way the cruel Romans could devise…”
As the time drew near for Jesus to ascend to heaven… Jesus was on his way to heaven, but he had to go through hell to get there! It was a really tough time.
• In Luke 9:30-31, we’re told that the Father sent Moses and Elijah to encourage him, to discuss the coming crucifixion, and to remind him that there’s life on the other side.
• In Luke 22:43, God sent an angel to strengthen Jesus so that he could make it through the next twelve hours ‘til his death.
There can be some pretty tough stuff between where we are right now and where we confidently believe and trust that God is taking us. Let’s not lose sight of where we’re going as we face the challenge of what’s between here and there.
We may need some friends to talk with about where we’re going—friends who have already made this part of the journey. We may need some supernatural strength from the Father. Jesus often found that strength in times of intense prayer.
It’s easy to lose sight of the destination in the middle of a train wreck or a traffic jam or when you’re sitting in your car by the side of the road waiting for a tow truck—but remember that, like Jesus, we’re citizens of God’s Kingdom and we’re on our way to heaven. And there’s good Kingdom of God work for you and me to do on the way! It may not be easy, but we’ll get there!
Pray this prayer with me:
Father, Please help me to keep my eyes on where I’m going, and not get bogged down and discouraged as I face the challenges of the moment. Please keep me clear and focused and moving forward. I pray for my friends who need your encouragement and strength today. Please send us an angel or a friend to speak heart-strengthening, faith-building words of life. Amen.