Read Mark 8:31-33
Can you imagine what the disciples were thinking when Jesus shared this information with them? Clearly, Peter wasn’t ready to hear such things. Jesus chose to openly communicate these events with his closest followers. It must have sounded like crazy talk. This is the first time Jesus mentions his death.
As bizarre as it sounded, the disciples were already seeing how the religious leaders were out to get Jesus. It’s hard to wrap your mind around the fact that those trying to please God with their rule following and reading of the scrolls (or Hebrew scriptures) would be so instrumental in what will happen to Jesus. The disciples had to be a bit confused.
Jesus was helping them to connect the dots and be prepared for what was coming. There’s nothing worse than being blindsided by something that could have been predicted. It was unavoidable and part of Jesus’ earthly mission. How does one prepare to watch a friend, a mentor, their Savior be killed?
What do you think the disciples thought when Jesus foretold his resurrection? Did they even understand what being raised from the dead would mean? In chapter 5 of Mark’s gospel, Jesus brought Jairus’ daughter back to life, but only a few disciples witnessed that. When people died, they usually stayed dead.
Can you see yourself acting like Peter, being in denial that anything bad could happen to Jesus? It has been noted to be a bit of a power play. Peter is boldly taking control as we hear Peter “took” Jesus aside and then reprimanded him. Who would think of scolding Jesus? It’s unthinkable.
Jesus thought so, too. His response to Peter makes that pretty obvious. “Get away from me, Satan!” Peter didn’t get it right this time. He was not looking at the big picture but merely from a limited human perspective. Jesus gives us a clue here to the difference between seeing with our own understanding and seeing with a revelation from God.
Can you recall a time when you received a revelation from God? Maybe it was a prophecy spoken over you. Maybe it was enlightened reading of a scripture passage. Maybe it was a time of worship when you clearly felt the Holy Spirit speaking into you. Pray for God to reveal himself to you.
Let’s pray. Lord, you are so merciful and giving. Thank you for how you prepared those closest to Jesus for the fate that was coming. I don’t know what the future holds for me or for the world. I do know that I’m ultimately blessed because I follow you and listen for your voice to lead me through this maze of life. Reveal yourself to me, and show me the direction I should take. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
