Jesus knew who He was. His identity had been re-affirmed at His baptism and transfiguration, and His disciples recognized His majesty (Luke 3:22; 9:20, 35). Jesus knew that suffering awaited Him (Luke 9:22). Yet He set His face toward Jerusalem and His execution.
In a world of conflict, isn’t it refreshing to see friendly faces? In a world of losses and isolation, isn’t it encouraging to be a team—a winning team? In a world of confusion, isn’t it special to know the truth, to share a common purpose?
At the beginning of 2021, I shared with our church a lesson entitled, “Ring Out the Old, Ring In the New” (quoting Alfred Lord Tennyson). The lesson looked back in remembrance, forward in anticipation, and upward for guidance and strength.
