A Check Engine Light
Luke 13:31-35
The Lenten Journey Continues
Welcome to episode two of our Lenten journey. Last week, we found ourselves alongside Jesus in the wilderness, learning about temptation and preparation. Today, we pull into a rest stop along the road to reflect and realign. This week, we walk with Jesus through towns and villages, witnessing His teaching, healing, and liberating work. But suddenly, a warning light appears—like a "check engine" light—urging caution and signaling danger. What will Jesus do? And what can we learn about navigating our own journey?
A "Check Engine" Light.
Jesus moves through villages and towns, teaching and performing miracles (Luke 13:22). But with each step closer to Jerusalem, the warnings intensify. The Pharisees, who have shown hostility before (Luke 11:53), approach Him with a message of danger: "Go away, leave here, for Herod wants to kill You" (Luke 13:31).
The warning from the Pharisees is suspect. Herod, though responsible for John the Baptist’s death, is portrayed as curious about Jesus, not overtly hostile (Luke 9:9; 23:8). So, were the Pharisees sincere, or were they manipulating the situation to protect their influence? Were they the real "foxes" in the story?
We, too, face "check engine" lights on our journey—doubts, fears, criticisms. Some are genuine; others are deceptive. How do we discern the difference? Like Jesus, we must stay focused, not panicking at every flashing light, but testing whether the danger is real or imagined.
Jesus' Response
Jesus responds with clarity and courage: "Go and tell that fox, 'Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I reach My goal'" (Luke 13:32). His mission is clear. He will not be deterred. His work continues until complete, and no threat will alter His course.
Resolve: Jesus is resolved. He knows where He is going and why. We, too, must be resolved in our Lenten journey. Regardless of distractions or challenges, we must keep moving one step at a time, even if it feels slow and difficult.
Urgency: Jesus felt an urgency to continue His work of healing and setting people free. Our journey also carries urgency. If we desire transformation, freedom from sin, and a deeper relationship with God, we must press forward urgently, seeking Jesus' help every step.
Motivation
Jesus demonstrates compassion for the people, which is a motivator. In Luke 13:34, He laments over Jerusalem: "How often I wanted to gather your children together, just as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you would not have it!" His motivation is love—a longing to protect and save, even those who reject Him.
This same love shapes our Lenten journey. We walk not for the approval of others but because of our affection for Christ. His compassion compels us. As we walk towards the cross, we reflect on His love and let it shape our journey.
The Endgame
Jesus concludes, "Behold, your house is left to you desolate; and I say to you, you will not see Me until the time comes when you say, 'Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!'" (Luke 13:35). He knows the timing of His journey is in God's hands. He will arrive at Jerusalem precisely when He means to, not too soon or too late.
We, too, journey according to God's timing. We may not see immediate results as we seek transformation, but we can trust that God is at work. Our progress may be slow, but it is sure. Jesus calls us to trust in the timing of His work in our lives.
Conclusion
Lent’s journey is not without warnings. We will encounter doubts, fears, and temptations. We may hear voices urging us to give up or turn back. But Jesus calls us to press on, guided by the Holy Spirit and strengthened by His love.
Let us deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him—not in fear but in faith, not retreating but pressing forward. For it is in following Jesus that we find true, abundant, and eternal life.
Don't let fear or discouragement stop you. Press on, and let the Spirit guide you. There is more to be experienced, more faith to be required, and more living to be done. Let us journey on together with Jesus as our guide. In dying to ourselves, we will find that we truly live.
Journey on,
Pastor Bruce
