JESUS HAS GONE AHEAD OF US AND FOR US
Jesus led the way up from Jericho to Jerusalem to face his ultimate purpose for coming–– the cross. The walk up from Jericho would take about 6-8 hours as they traveled the Roman road, the ruins of which can still be seen today. It was a steep climb, with an elevation increase of 3400 feet. Jesus walked ahead of his disciples and his other followers, pressing on alone with a look of firm resolve on His face (see Luke 9:51) and a determined step to his gait. Those following him were awestruck and even filled with fear as they tried to keep up with his dogged pace. After some time, Jesus finally took a break and explained once again to his disciples exactly what would happen to him in Jerusalem. From betrayal to torture to death on a Roman cross and rising again three days later, Jesus described in great detail why he was so determined to be in Jerusalem. He was about to complete his mission.
Today, we have this great hope in the One who has gone ahead of us, not only to Jerusalem and the cross, but from the grave to the Father in heaven on our behalf. As the book of Hebrews says, “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, sure and strong. It enters behind the curtain in the Most Holy Place in heaven, where Jesus has gone ahead of us and for us” (Heb. 6:19-20).
PRAYER: Dear Father, we thank You for Jesus, who has gone before us, preparing the way of salvation for us. We receive this wonderful gift and ask You to strengthen us to follow Him always, walking as He walked. In Jesus’ name, amen.