He Set His Face to Jerusalem

Prepare for Easter by looking toward Jerusalem.

In this Lenten study, Richard Wilke explores Jesus’ commitment to go to Jerusalem. The Gospel of Luke says, “When the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem” (Luke 9:51). Wilke looks at Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem in order to help us reflect on how we “set our faces” in life. He reminds us in the introduction, “As followers of Jesus, we are called to reflect on and pray about where we set our faces day by day. Where do we set our faces in our relationships with God and with our neighbor? Where do we set our faces with our ethical choices? Where do we set our faces when we see those who are poor and oppressed?” We might also ask other questions. What are our goals as people of faith? What are we resolute or determined about in our lives? As we set our faces to Jerusalem and to the ministry, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus, what difference does it make? What does Jesus’ determination say to us about our commitments and about our need to grow in love of God and neighbor?

He Set His Face to Jerusalem includes seven chapters, one for each week in Lent and one for Holy Week and Easter. Each session includes a Scripture reference, a personal reading, questions for reflection, a closing prayer, and a focus for the week. The book is excellent for small group and individual use.