Transforming Way!

Tuesday, October 1, 2024

Jb 3:1-3, 11-17, 20-23; Lk 9:51-56

Today’s Gospel highlights the beginning of Jesus’ travel toward Jerusalem. 

‘The Travel Narrative’ in Luke begins at 9:51 and extends up to 19:27. 

Though travel narratives are part of other Gospels too, Luke’s own contains interesting sections not seen in other Gospels. 

What is the purpose of the Lukan travel narrative? 

1.The Lukan travel narrative highlights Jesus’ faithfulness, especially as he is ‘resolutely determined to journey to Jerusalem’ in accordance with the plan of God. In other words, Jesus travels to Jerusalem to accomplish the purpose of his incarnation. 

2. While Jesus will complete his mission in Jerusalem, the Christian mission will travel to the ends of the earth from Jerusalem. 

3. On his way to Jerusalem, we find Jesus the great teacher who instructs his disciples on missionary travels (10:1-24), about the use of possessions (16:1-31), and prayer (11:1-13). Further, it is on his way to Jerusalem that Jesus teaches world-renowned parables like the Good Samaritan (10:25-37) and the Prodigal Son (15:11-32). It is no wonder that Christianity was called ‘the Way’ (Acts 9:2, 18:26, 24:22). 

4. Jesus undertakes a journey that will not only help him get closer to God but also his followers, who, with his guidance and inspiration, are led to a life with God. 

Hence, the way to Jerusalem was not only purposeful for Jesus but also life-changing for his disciples. 

Let us pray that, in our journey with Jesus, we may be transformed to love God more.

Fr. Dhinakaran Savariyar