Resolute

According to Luke’s gospel, as Jesus nears the end of his days on Earth, he fixates on getting to Jerusalem. The word used in the text (Luke 9:51) means he “set his face” in a resolute and determined manner. Whether by divine understanding or simply by being able to sense the inevitable, Jesus anticipates his death and knows the cross awaits. From this point forward, his focus and activity reveal a heightened sense of intentionality and determination.

Along the way to the city, he will continue to show compassion, speak the truth, model love, and share the hope of the gospel. How we get to where we are going matters. But it is crystal clear that nothing and no one will deter him at this point in his journey.

People with this sort of intensity make others uncomfortable. Their passion, whether for justice, evangelism, a social issue or concern, or even personal faithfulness and purity, can be unsettling to those of us who are more comfortable browsing and meandering. Rather than being so locked in, we sometimes wish they would chill out, mellow out, and get out of our faces.

It doesn’t help, I suppose, that we live in a world of countless and constant distractions. There is SO MUCH to keep us entertained and distracted. There are SO MANY ways to numb our pain and ease our consciences. Serious and determined devotion can wait another hour, another day, another decade in the face of so much more I could do.

In the mid-1980s, a pastor friend led a Bible study with a group from his church. They were reading Philippians and reflecting on the passage where Paul writes, “To live is Christ, and to die is gain.” This statement arises from the Apostle’s passionate desire to be in union with Christ and live in fruitful devotion now and into eternity. The pastor asked how this sentiment connected with members of the group, who all happened to be leaders in the congregation. To his surprise, no one resonated with it. One man summarized the feeling of the group when he said, “It is hard to be that focused on God when we have family, vacations, great hobbies, and sports–especially the NFL!” Clearly, Jesus can’t compete with professional football! If he could, maybe the NFL would be buying ads during Easter Services… … …

Even in communities without so much privilege, discretionary income, and time, many people find inevitable distractions that draw them away from a life of deep abiding communion, engagement in a vibrant fellowship, and service that brings glory to God and good to others. Rich or poor, male or female, and among every race and culture, the temptation to fritter away our time and energy on things that don’t really matter is awfully easy.

Of course, rest, Sabbath, and knowing our limits matter. Knowing what is ours to do and not to do is essential if we are to be meaningfully focused. Jesus neither lived a frenzied existence nor called his followers to do so. But for those who choose to follow, He beckons us to do so resolutely. Not haphazardly, intermittently, or occasionally—but with a singular focus and loyal determination all along the way until we are fully and finally at home in God.

I have thought about the notion of being resolute for many years now. More so now that I am older and feel time winding down. I may not be over the hill, but the summit is approaching. With whatever time remains, I do wish to use it fully and faithfully.

What about you? As you think about your remaining days, do you have a sense of where to focus your attention? Are there distractions and diversions to be set aside? What would it mean for you to set your face toward God?