August 26

Go Forward

As the day of His ascension approached, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem. — Luke 9:51 BSB

We don’t know what lies ahead in our lives. There may be great sorrow or anguish waiting for us tomorrow, but today we don’t feel its weight because we’re unaware of it. This is a merciful provision from God. If we knew in advance the trials we would face, our joy in the present would be overshadowed by the anticipation of future pain. It’s far better that we remain unaware until we are led to the edge of the experience.

But for Christ, there was no such mercy. He saw every step of the sorrowful path ahead. And yet, knowing all this, He still pressed forward eagerly. He set His face toward Jerusalem, fully aware that His journey would lead to Gethsemane, Gabbatha, and Golgotha. This steadfastness is one of the most heroic acts in all history. Jesus, knowing the cross awaited Him, walked directly toward it. This serves as an example for us—we, too, must press forward in our duties, no matter what challenges or sacrifices may lie ahead.

Too often, we hesitate when hard tasks are assigned to us, counting the cost before we act. But Jesus walked steadily forward, step by step, toward His suffering, knowing that His cross would bring salvation and eternal life for countless souls. His love drove Him forward with urgency. As we witness His journey to the cross, we should remember that it was for our sake that He pressed on so resolutely. He set His face toward Jerusalem to secure our salvation.