Read Luke 9:46-51
As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.
Luke 9:51
Jesus’ Galilean ministry comes to a close and he resolutely begins his journey to Jerusalem, the city where he will accomplish his exodus from death to glory. Jesus is fully committed to bring his saving mission to completion, regardless of the cost. You too are starting your journey to the Holy Land and it will culminate in Jerusalem. The purpose of our pilgrimage as you may remember, is to meet God anew. This will give us the strength to persevere in our journey to the Heavenly Jerusalem, the place ‘no eye has seen, no ear has heard, no human mind has conceived” — the things God has prepared for those who love him’ (1 Cor 2:9).
Significant events in Jesus’ life happen at appointed times, according to God’s plan. In Luke 9:51, a turning point takes place since the time has approached (sympleroo) for his death and resurrection to occur. Today, the appointed time for our pilgrimage has arrived! Let us pray for the grace that while we are visiting the places where Jesus lived, we are able to grasp and experience the infinite love that God has for each and every one of us - a fully committed love that is ready to freely die on the cross to have an intimate relationship with each of us.
Lord, I lift up this pilgrimage to you and may it be filled with an abundance of your blessings. Through your infinite grace, let this pilgrimage be a fresh opportunity to grow in our relationship with you and to experience your infinite love in a deeper way.