In these days of lock-down we’re getting used to only making essential journeys. In order to prevent the spread of Coronavirus it has become essential that we stay in our homes and as far as possible avoid meeting others. For the most part the only people now allowed to travel are those who are saving lives, either by working in the food supply chain or the health service.
I’m reminded of an essential journey that Jesus once made and for similar reasons. About a third of the way into his Gospel Luke writes, ‘As the time came near for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus set his face for Jerusalem.’ It’s clear that like so many medical staff heading into hospital this essential journey was going to be costly for Jesus. He knew that at the end of the journey lay suffering and death upon a cross.
As we approach Easter in these most unusual of times, we are very conscious of the sacrifices being made by so many to keep us safe. Perhaps, then, we might also reflect on Jesus, the Bread of Life, who made an essential journey to the cross and gave up his life in order to save ours. There is no greater love than this.
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