Mark chapter 10 verse 32 (NIV)
They were on their way up to Jerusalem, with Jesus leading the way, and the disciples were astonished, while those who followed were afraid. Again, he took the Twelve aside and told them what was going to happen to him.
Luke chapter 9: verse 51 (NIV)
As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.
Isaiah Chapter 50 verse 7 (NIV)
Because the Sovereign Lord helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore have I set my face like flint, and I know I will not be put to shame.
It was the first sentence of this verse in Mark that grabbed my attention this morning – the astonishment of the disciples and the fear of others who followed. What did they see that affected them in this way? Luke’s account of this journeys and Isaiah’s affirmation of faith in God’s help give us an idea. I think they saw in a way that they hadn’t fully appreciated until then, the anointing and calling of Christ, and His unwavering determination to fulfil it, no matter what. Such singlemindedness can inspire others to do the same, and yes, those who don’t understand it can be in awe and a little afraid. Jesus had that absolute assurance that He was doing His Father’s will. But Isaiah reminds us that we too can do the Father’s will for us. But we must, like Jesus, set our minds to do it, and be confident, as Isaiah was, that God will help us. When we do that, others will see the hand of God on our lives and will feel the impact of it.
Dear Lord,
Help me to be determined and resolute to do Your will. May Your hand on my life be so tangible that it impacts those who cross my path and points them to You. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.