The Goal. (#recall 12 series, November)

Welcome to the #recall12 series, where together we are memorizing a little bit more of God’s Word each month! This month’s verse is:

“I will reach my goal.” Luke 13:32 b

By looking at this verse from three different angles, we will learn more about why Jesus said this, and how to apply His statement to our everyday lives.

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1. What Did The Fox Say?

“Go tell that fox, ‘I will keep on driving out demons and healing people today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will reach my goal.’ Luke 13:32 (NIV)

The original Greek word for fox is alopex, used in this month’s verse to describe a sly and crazy man. (Strongs) Jesus was referring to King Herod, a king extremely paranoid about someone stealing his throne. The apostles advised Jesus to flee.

“Leave this place and go somewhere else. Herod wants to kill you.” Luke 13:31

Herod’s father, King Herod the Great, executed many of his own family members …and all of the first born sons upon knowledge Christ’s birth. Some of our earthly suffering is a product of what we were marinated in as children. Herod inherited his fathers’s paranoia, and he was threatened by Jesus’ rising popularity. Even the head of his own household became a follower.

“Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household; Susanna; and many others.” Luke 8:1-3

Joanna’s significant standing in the royal house, and as one of Jesus’ followers, is evidenced by her mention alongside the apostles and Mary. Despite King Herrod’s attempts to secure the loyalty of his people, they were continually drawn to Jesus.

2. Too Busy.

“Tell that fox that I’ve no time for him right now.” Luke 13:32a (MESSAGE)

Jesus knew His Father had the final number on His earthly days, not King Herod. The nov image 3
One and only Son of God sat beside His Father at the Creation of the world, and as each of us were created and crafted. Though He experienced human feelings and emotions, nothing about the way people were, or Herod was, surprised Jesus.

“I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent.” Luke 4:43

It’s what He was put on earth to do, what He does now, and will for all time. It’s Who He Is. Jesus is mission minded.

3. Confidently Called.

The original Greek for the word ‘goal’ in this month’s verse is ‘teleioo’. It means to complete …perfect. (Strongs) Not just to finish, but to perfectly complete. Perfection alludes humanity, but it’s who Jesus is. His purpose was undeterred by the sinful nature that distracts us from perfecting God’s will in our lives.

“The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.” Luke 9:22

‘Teleioo’ is used one other time, in Luke 2:43, where the English word “full” appears.

“As they were returning, after spending the full number of days, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. But His parents were unaware of it.”

Jesus was accustomed to confused looks, and the paranoia that led religious leaders to reject Him and family to question Him. But their misunderstanding didn’t stop Him from accomplishing His purpose.

“I’ll reach My destination.” Luke 13:32b (VOICE)

Jesus breathes His purpose into our lives. We are an extension of His love on earth as we spread His gospel of hope. Following Christ is joyful and purposeful, but can also be alienating. We will be misunderstood by many, and bring ridicule upon our shoulders. Go, anyway.

“I will accomplish my purpose.” Luke 13:32b (NLT)

The fleeting feeling of acceptance by society pales in comparison to knowing how our story ends. After this life, there will be no pain. His smiling face and warm embrace will be ours to bask in for the rest of eternity.

Jesus accomplished His purpose. He reached His goal. On the cross, Jesus won the most important victory of all time …our freedom.

Hold onto this verse, and follow Him hard.