March 29
The Way Set Before Him (Evening Only)
Scripture Reading: Luke 9:51
When the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem.
Evening Reflection
Holy Week starts off in a quiet way.
There aren’t any crowds around. No palm branches waving. No loud cheers. Just a determined “face set toward Jerusalem.” Luke is sharing something significant with us. Jesus isn’t just drifting into this week; He’s not being swept along by events or caught up in the crowd’s energy. He’s making a choice to take this path.
Jesus knows what lies ahead in Jerusalem: rejection, conflict, betrayal, suffering, and ultimately, death. He’s already had those tough conversations with His disciples. None of this is a surprise to Him, yet He still chooses to go.
That’s important because many of us come into this week carrying our own burdens. Some of us are exhausted in ways that no amount of sleep can fix. Others feel scattered, like our minds are being pulled in a million different directions. Some are weighed down by guilt that just won’t let go. For others, it’s the grief that still takes our breath away. And some of us just feel flat—aware that this week should mean something, but unsure how to make it feel significant.
Luke reminds us that Jesus doesn’t wait for us to feel ready. He doesn’t hold out for perfect understanding. He doesn’t wait for unwavering devotion. He doesn’t pause for emotional clarity. Instead, He sets His face toward us, moving forward even when we’re still trying to figure things out.
There’s a calmness in that statement. It’s not forceful or frantic; it’s simply resolute. Jesus isn’t rushing or hesitating. He’s walking ahead with intention. This isn’t about grim determination; it’s love with a clear purpose.
Jesus knows the cost of obedience, and He doesn’t shy away from it. He understands the loneliness that’s coming, yet He doesn’t pull back. He sees the suffering ahead and doesn’t look for an easier route.
This perspective should transform how we experience Holy Week. This week isn’t primarily about how closely we follow Jesus. It’s about how faithfully He follows the Father on our behalf.
Later in Hebrews, we learn that Jesus endured the cross “for the joy that was set before him.” That joy was in completing the mission He was sent for—the joy of opening a path back to God for sinners, the joy of loving us to the very end.
Songs
Modern:Man of Sorrows
Evening Questions
As you wrap up this day, where do you feel the most drained? Is it physically, emotionally, or spiritually?
What’s one situation in my life right now that I’d rather sidestep, rush through, or put off?
How does the fact that Jesus chose to face suffering for me influence the way I can find rest tonight?
Evening Prayer
Sovereign Lord,
I am hesitant where You are resolute, fearful where You are faithful, slow where You are willing.
Teach me to rest not in my resolve, but in Yours.
As this holy week begins, let Your steadiness carry me.
Amen.
Adapted fromThe Valley of Vision, “Submission”