MY JESUS - Lent Devotional
Today’s the day we remember Jesus’s arrival in Jerusalem. It’s the day when we picture the crowds, the praise, the noise. It’s glorious, and yet… Within a week those will be calling for his death.
But today is less about the crowds and more about Jesus. How He sets His face on the city and will not be deterred. His goal is in sight. Nothing will change His course.
‘As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.’
[Luke 9:51]
Thought:
Let your mind drift back to the last time you felt overwhelmed. Life was stacked up against you – maybe it as a money problem or a people problem, or just one of those series of things that felt utterly unfixable. It was like you were caught in a storm, and at times it felt like all you could do was hunch up your shoulders and keep taking each step until you finally reached your destination.
The reasons may vary, but all of us struggle from time to time. And at times like these, all of us can be guilty of narrowing our focus on our own problems so much that we fail to see the companion that quietly draws alongside.
We’re not the first. The disciples walking to Emmaus didn’t recognize Jesus, and there are plenty of stories in the Bible where good people made bad choices when they tried to take matters into their own hands.
But whatever we’re facing, Jesus has been there. He knows what it is to face opposition. He knows what it is to see pain and suffering on the horizon. And He knows what it is to keep going, trusting in God’s love and care.
Invitation:
Perhaps you’re in need of a reminder right now – that Jesus walks beside you. If your own life is hard going, why not reach out to someone you can trust and ask them to listen and pray with you?
Perhaps you need to be the one who demonstrates that love and compassion to someone else. Perhaps you can tell them that you are praying for them and that you’re here for them if they need someone to talk to.
Whatever our needs today, all of us can remember Jesus and give thanks.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, it’s so good to know that You have walked the same roads I have. You understand what it is to be misunderstood and face opposition. Thank You for walking with me, especially when it’s hard work. Help me to recognise your presence, and to demonstrate your love to others.
Amen