The Road Devotional | Lent 2024

Jesus took the Twelve aside and told them, “We are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written by the prophets about the Son of Man will be fulfilled. He will be delivered over to the Gentiles. They will mock him, insult him and spit on him; they will flog him and kill him. On the third day he will rise again.” The disciples did not understand any of this. Its meaning was hidden from them, and they did not know what he was talking about. 

This is one of several references by Jesus, speaking to his disciples, referring to his coming death in Jerusalem. This is at least the fourth time that he has spoken about it that is recorded in Luke's gospel. This is done to fulfill the words of the prophets.

Q. Imagine being one of the disciples as Jesus reveals the imminent journey to Jerusalem. How does the anticipation of the events affect you? Consider the weight of the mission and the courage required for such a journey.

The description of what is to happen to Jesus is indeed grim, but as the final verse tells us, the disciples still did not understand the meaning of what Jesus was trying to tell them. Why might this be the case? Either they do not understand God's plan in scripture or how God often ironically works in the world, they have premature expectations of what Jesus as messiah will look like or some combination of both.

Q. When have your expectations for something clouded your ability to fully understand the situation?

God, I pray for the grace to see beyond my own limited understanding. May I have the humility to acknowledge the areas in my life where I am blind and the openness to receive the insights that Jesus invites me to experience. As I journey with Jesus, may my eyes remain fixed, trusting that Your plans are always for my ultimate good.

Amen.