Luke 13:31-33

“It looks dangerous to me.”  As Bob studied the rope bridge, he saw the frayed ends and missing boards.  So his advice was simple, “Let’s turn back.”  In contrast to Bob’s timid nature, John expressed complete confidence.  He knew the bridge was going to support their weight because he had just used the bridge a week earlier.  So he started across the bridge and invited his friend, “Let’s keep going!”

Jesus faced a similar decision.  Should I turn back, or should I keep going?  He knew what was in store for him if he pressed on (Luke 13:33).  His decision was revealed in his resolve: “I must keep going.”

Jesus knew what he was here to do (John 3:16-17).  It was a ministry entrusted to him by his Father.  He also knew how it was going to end.  Still, he accepted the work, and did not turn away from the cost.  Through every obstacle and challenge, as well as through every temptation, he persevered.

“I must keep going.”  With these words I come to understand the commitment Jesus had for my rescue.  He was going to do everything necessary to free me from the punishment my sin demanded and the hopelessness I would have without him.  The only thing that could help me was his death.  Because Jesus was willing to die on the cross, I am free.  Free from the punishment I deserved, and free from Satan’s tyranny over my life.  It is this freedom in which I now live.

As I live in this freedom I need to recognize the challenges that confront me.  Satan does not give up his claim on me.  My flesh continues to be weak and timid.  Even the world increases its pressures and distractions.  This unholy alliance seeks to make me give up my faith in Jesus, and give up the freedom he secured for me.

“I must keep going.”  It not only becomes my goal for life, it also becomes my source of help.  When I am tempted to stop following my Savior, or when I am tempted to give up, I need to look to Jesus.  I need to see him on his journey to Jerusalem and the cross.  I need to see him living and dying for me.  I need to trust that he never gave up on me.  It is this knowledge that becomes my reason to persevere.  It is my courage, my power and my conviction to say: “I must keep going.”