In his ongoing catechesis under the framework “Journey to Jerusalem,” Luke continues to astound readers with difficult material for instruction. In this Sunday’s Gospel reading he seems to have reached the limits of problematic sayings attributed to Jesus.

The immediately preceding context, which was also last Sunday’s gospel reading, centered on the end time and the return of Jesus, although in somewhat veiled language. What now follows in Luke’s Gospel seems to also be related to the end time and the expected problems in such a time of turmoil and upheaval.

Luke’s ongoing catechesis is still under the heading, “The Journey to Jerusalem.” Thus Luke begins, “Jesus passed through towns and villages, teaching as he went, making his way to Jerusalem.” That journey is a journey to a difficult ending — the cross.