51 The time approached for Him to be taken back up to the Father; so strong with resolve, Jesus made Jerusalem His destination. 52 He sent some people ahead of Him into the territory of the Samaritans, a minority group at odds with the Jewish majority. He wanted His messengers to find a place for them to stay in a village along the road to Jerusalem. 53 But because the Samaritans realized Jesus was going to Jerusalem, they refused to welcome them. James and John (outraged): 54 Lord, do You want us to call down fire from heaven to destroy these people who have rejected You?[e] [Just as Elijah did.][f] Jesus (turning toward them and shaking His head): 55 You just don’t get it. [56 The Son of Man didn’t come to ruin the lives of people, but He came to liberate them.][g] He led them on toward another village. 57 Farther along on the road, a man volunteered to become a disciple. Volunteer: I’ll follow You to any destination. Jesus: 58 Foxes are at home in their burrows. Birds are at home in their nests. But the Son of Man has no home. 59 You (to another person)—I want you to follow Me! Another Volunteer: I’d be glad to, Teacher, but let me first attend to my father’s funeral. Jesus: 60 Let the dead bury their dead. I’m giving you a different calling—to go and proclaim the kingdom of God. A Third Volunteer: 61 I’ll come, Jesus. I’ll follow You. But just let me first run home to say good-bye to my family. Jesus: 62 Listen, if your hand is on the plow but your eyes are looking backward, then you’re not fit for the kingdom of God. |
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