There comes a moment in the Gospels when Jesus stops wandering.
Up until then, there have been healings, teachings, lakeside conversations, and the occasional attempt by well-meaning disciples to improve the itinerary. But then something shifts. Jesus sets his face toward Jerusalem.
Which is to say: he chooses direction.
Lent 2 often carries this note. The wilderness wandering gives way to intention. The road is no longer theoretical. It leads somewhere specific. Somewhere costly.
We are fond of spiritual exploration. We like attending things. Reading things. Reflecting on things. We are much less enthusiastic about setting our faces toward something that might require courage.
Jerusalem, after all, is not merely a destination. It is a decision.
To follow Christ is not simply to admire his teaching; it is to walk where he walks. And eventually, that means choosing love over safety, truth over convenience, mercy over reputation.
This is not dramatic most days. It simply means living with direction.
Lent 2 asks us, gently but firmly: where are you headed? What is shaping your choices? Is your faith wandering pleasantly, or walking purposefully?
The good news is that Jesus does not ask us to be fearless. He asks us to be faithful. The road may turn toward Jerusalem, but we do not walk it alone.
And if we occasionally pause to check the map, form a subcommittee, or reconsider our footwear, I suspect heaven remains patient.
Companion Prayer
Steadfast Lord,
You set your face toward love
even when the road was costly.
Turn our hearts toward what matters.
Give us courage to walk with intention,
and grace when our steps falter.
Lead us toward your kingdom,
one faithful decision at a time.
Amen.