Real Conversations (Luke 8-10)Sampel

In today’s reading, Jesus set His face toward Jerusalem, toward Calvary. When Jesus sent people ahead of Him to the village, the Samaritans rejected Him and refused to let Him enter. This was likely because of their prejudice against the Jewish people and because Jesus was headed to the center of Jewish culture and religion.

Just like on the Mount of Transfiguration, James and John did not fully understand what God was doing. Possibly fueled by their own prejudice against Samaritans, they offered to call down fire from heaven to consume the village. If Jesus wanted to punish this village, He could have quickly done so Himself. He did not need His disciples to protect Him and promptly told them as much. Jesus was on His way to Jerusalem to die for the sins of the world, including Samaritans. Jesus was headed to save people, not destroy them.

Even now, God may send us to places that reject us and Him. The Gospel has enemies, but Scripture tells us that truth will prevail!

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for your mercy. Help us share the Good News with others.