Definition: And sent messengers before his face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that passage from Luke 9:52. It’s a really important part of Jesus’ story about traveling to Jerusalem! Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, Jesus was going to Jerusalem to get a place at the table with Jewish people. “And sent messengers before his face…” – This suggests that Jesus wasn't just going to Jerusalem; he was preparing for it. He was sending people out to talk to the Jewish leaders and show them he was coming. “…and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans…” – The Samaritans were a group of Jews who lived in the east, and they weren’t as accepted by the Jewish people as those in Jerusalem. This village is a place where Jesus was going to meet with some people there. So, what's the big takeaway? It means Jesus wasn’t just going to Jerusalem; he was planning to travel to a different group of people – the Samaritans - in order to be welcomed and included. Why is this important? It shows that Jesus was sensitive to the needs of all people, not just those who lived in the traditional Jewish area. It also hints at his plan to ultimately bring reconciliation between Jews and Samaritans. Do you want me to explain any of these parts a little more deeply, or would you like me to connect it to a particular theme in the Bible?