Called to Jerusalem – Living for God's Purpose
“He…said to them, ‘Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem…’” – Luke 18:31
For the Christian leader, life is not a random journey of personal ambition but a purposeful ascent toward God’s calling. Jesus’ words in Luke 18:31 are more than a travel notice—they reflect the unwavering pursuit of His Father’s will. Jerusalem was not just a destination for Jesus; it was the culmination of His mission, the place where divine purpose and personal surrender converged.
Jesus lived with one compelling focus: “I do not seek My own will but the will of the Father who sent Me” (John 5:30). That singular devotion shaped every choice, every step, every sacrifice. He “steadfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem” (Luke 9:51), undeterred by obstacles or distractions.
Christian leadership, likewise, is not about fulfilling personal dreams but aligning with God’s greater purpose. “You did not choose Me, but I chose you…” (John 15:16). We are called—not consulted. We are chosen—not for our plans, but for His. Our ambitions must surrender to His direction. We may not always see the full picture, and God’s path may seem unclear or even counterintuitive. Yet, the journey is not aimless—it is a divine appointment.
Often, God “takes us aside” (Luke 18:31), interrupting our plans to refocus us on His. What we see as detours are His design. The tasks we complete may fade, but what remains is the enduring impact of living in step with God’s compelling purpose.
Let us, like Christ, set our faces toward Jerusalem—not for our glory, but for the fulfillment of His will through our surrendered leadership.
UNTIL THE NEXT . . .
(Takeaway from E. Stanley Jones. My Utmost For His Highest)