The Recognition, part 18:

And behold, two men were talking with Him; and they were Moses and Elijah, who, appearing in glory, were speaking of His departure which He was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. (Luke 9:30-31 NASB)

What Jesus was "about to accomplish at Jerusalem" was his death, burial, and resurrection, followed later by his ascension into heaven. There was still time yet before events would unfold, but heavenly plans were being made and confirmed. When I think of the cross and the empty tomb, mostly I see the cross and the sin of the world that put Him there, my sin that made His sacrifice essential for my eternal survival. 

It's interesting that Moses and Elijah seemed to see things a little differently. The word translated as "departure" is  exodos and literally means departure or the"close of one's career". Their view was not focused on the agony but on the result. All that was to come simply preceded the return of God's Son to His rightful place at the right hand of His Father's throne. Those events were simply the final events that would complete His assigned task. The word translated as "accomplish" is another great word, because it also means "filled to the top" or "completed". Isn't that exactly what Jesus did? He completely accomplished the job of redemption, and did not leave until the job was done. What a Savior! 

There are many lessons we can draw from this, but today let us simply revel in the fact that we serve a God who, because of His mercy and love, did not stop until the job of redemption was done. All that was needed to pay the penalty for your sin and mine has been paid by our Lord Jesus. The only thing remaining is for us to accept the gift of redemption He so freely offers. We trade our sin for His righteousness, our lostness for His leadership, our damnation for His eternal reward! 

What a trade! What a Savior! 

The appropriate response to such a gift is deep and abiding gratitude for the One who has given so much to us. Today, let us offer prayers of praise and thanksgiving to the One who completely accomplished all that was needed for our redemption, the One who, though departed, is soon coming again! 

Come quickly, Lord Jesus!