READING: Isaiah 48:12-52:12
The Son of God set His sights on Jerusalem, knowing that the city would be the place of His crucifixion: “When the days were coming to a close for him to be taken up, he determined to journey to Jerusalem” (Luke 9:51). More specifically, he “set His face” toward that city.
The prophet Isaiah spoke of that truth in the third of four “Servant songs” that pointed toward the Messiah. The Servant chose obedience to the Father, not turning away but instead giving His back to those who beat Him, His cheeks to those who tore out His beard, and His face to those who scorned Him and spit upon Him (Isa 50:5-6). Knowing that God would take care of Him, the Servant set His face “like flint” (Isa 50:7) toward whatever obedience would cost Him. Thus, Jesus’ determination to do the Father’s will was based on His trust the Father would take care of Him. Resurrection would indeed vindicate Him.
So, too, you and I must set our face like flint toward obeying the Father. We do not turn to the right or the left; we are instead to carefully obey all that God commands (Josh 1:7).
PERSONAL REFLECTION: Is your face set like flint toward obeying God?
DAILY PRAYER: “Father, give me that resolve toward obedience, no matter what it may cost me.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Isaiah 52:13-57:21
