A Face Set Like Flint

As Jesus's earthly days draw to their conclusion, he sets his sights on Jerusalem and will not deviate from the path that leads straight to the Cross. Traveling through Samaria, he responds to James and John's itch for power and vengeance. Their impetuous wish for destruction warrants a sharp rebuke from the one who came to seek and save the lost. There will be a time for judgment, but not yet. Moving on from Samaria, Jesus meets three would-be followers who struggle to reckon with the cost of discipleship. These conversations, together with James and John's humbling rebuke, teach us of the present nature of Christ's kingdom and the single-hearted devotion it requires. As followers of Christ today, may we turn aside from whatever hinders an unwavering resolve to follow our compassionate Lord.