Which Road Will You Take?

In his book Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, Lewis Carroll writes these words “If you don’t know where you are going any road will take you there”.  Jesus must have understood this principle for the Bible tells us that “As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.” (Luke 9:51 NIV)  The Amplified Version further states Jesus “steadfastly and determinedly set His face to go to Jerusalem.” There was purpose in Jesus decision there was resolution in His actions.  Jesus didn’t just happen to end up in Jerusalem he chose to go there!   

Jesus had been warned that his life was in danger if he went there.  Surely there was an easier road, a road not fraught with danger and difficulty.  Why Jerusalem?  Why this tragic road?  It is in Jerusalem that Jesus life finds its fulfillment.  In Jerusalem he is betrayed.  In Jerusalem he is tortured and sentenced to death.  In Jerusalem Jesus is led down the crowded streets to a lonely wind swept hill to be nailed to rugged cross between two thieves.  There on that cross Jesus bows his head, breathes his last and says “It is finished”.  His task is done.  His life’s purpose accomplished.  The power of sin and death is broken and you and I have the opportunity to find forgiveness and grace In Jesus name.  As Paul writes to the Romans "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." (Romans 10:13)

So what about us?  Which road will we travel?  We can simply float through life allowing the current of circumstances to carry us down the path of least resistance or we can choose with purpose to pursue “the race marked out for us” by God.  The author of the book of Hebrews encourages us with these words “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.  Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” (Hebrews 12:1-3)

As we prepare our hearts for our Easter celebration may we take a moment to stop and ask Jesus “Which Road?” and then with his help pursue it with purpose and resolution. 

Yours for the Kingdom,

Pastor Buddy