The ending of Luke chapter 13 shows the urgency of Jesus’ mission as well as the stubbornness of the people:
Luke 13:31-35
At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” And he said to them, “Go and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course. Nevertheless, I must go on my way today and tomorrow and the day following, for it cannot be that a prophet should perish away from Jerusalem.’ O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! Behold, your house is forsaken. And I tell you, you will not see me until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!’” (ESV)
One wonders if the Pharisees that “warned” Jesus weren’t just trying to get Jesus to leave their area. I find it hard to believe that they were really concerned with Jesus’ safety. Jesus affirms that he must continue his healing and teaching, even if it means his death in Jerusalem.
Sadly, Jesus laments over Jerusalem, because he desired to gather his people together, but they were unwilling. Jesus pronounces a curse over the city that kills the prophets, that will end only when he returns again in glory. Even to this day, Jerusalem has terrorist attacks, threats to its safety from other nations and religious problems. May God redeem his city and make it holy again when he comes as king in his majesty!
Maranatha! IC -|- XC
Prayer for Today:
Lord, thank you for never letting your followers go into hard situations alone. Your love has no limits, and your faithfulness is everlasting. Amen.