July 11

“And it came to pass, when the days were well-nigh come that he should be received up, he steadfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem.” Luke 9:51      

Nothing could sidetrack Christ from the goal; yet on his road thither he visited many cities and villages and taught in them. Without deviating from his course, he nevertheless bought up every opportunity by the way. Yes, though the hour approached when he "should be received up" to the Father, the short space of time between was filled with purposeful activity.

If we hope soon to be "received up" to meet him, let us not spend the in-between idly waiting for that day. Let me ask you: Is this hope of his Return just a part of our creed, or are we positively waiting for its realization? And what are we doing in the meantime? Are we daily walking with him in the way of the cross? Are we telling those we encounter by the way the Good News of his salvation? And are we alone in our witness, or are we drawing others to labor with us? The goal is clear, but the road between is strewn with opportunities, if only we will set ourselves to do diligently all that comes to our hand.