In our last reading, Jesus was applauding Peter’s bold statement and gave him the keys to the kingdom. Today, Peter is being called “Satan” by an angry Jesus. Maybe “angry” is too harsh, but Jesus wasn’t pleased with Peter. Why? Peter was in denial. Peter didn’t want to hear Jesus talking about such things as torture and death. Peter couldn’t imagine a life without Jesus in it. Those thoughts were human thoughts.
I’m sure Jesus, being 100% human, was also struggling with the reality of his destiny on earth. I don’t know who in their right mind would be looking forward to being brutalized and killed, especially when they were totally innocent. Yet, Jesus knew what was coming. It was time to prepare his friends for the events to come. For Peter to be in denial was not helping Jesus at all.
The words that follow are intimate and true for us as well, Jesus knew that the world and its enticements would be a huge temptation. To be a true follower of Jesus, we need to give up our own way. By this, I don’t think Jesus wants us to be robots and not express ourselves. Yet, we need to be clear on our priorities.
Think about all that you have going on in your life. Look around at all of your earthly possessions. What if you walked away from all that today? Could you? Perhaps even the thought of leaving your “stuff” behind makes you sick to your stomach. Whose stuff is it really? Hasn’t God provided for us to get us where we are today? But is that what Jesus is really saying? I know he wants us to follow him. If we are distracted by the world we aren’t truly following him. Take a moment to let that sink in just a little bit. Remember Jesus’ words, “Is anything worth more than your soul?”
Jesus came with a purpose. To seek and save the lost. Even though he left this world in the physical sense, his purpose still remains for us. What did you think when you read these words. “And I tell you the truth, some standing here right now will not die before they see the Son of Man coming in his Kingdom.” Certainly, none of the disciples are still alive, and we haven’t seen Jesus’ return yet. We know that not even Jesus knows the plan of the Father. We have also heard that Jesus will return once all the Gentiles have heard.
We know that Jesus is going to return in all of his glory. We need to be doing our part to reach the lost and those who don’t yet know Jesus. We can hasten his return along. Are you ready for this assignment? Maybe you are already sold out for the kingdom and doing all you can to spread the Good News. Most of us are somewhere in between, not sure what we can do. When in doubt? Pray.
Let’s pray. Lord, I thank you for how you’ve empowered me to share the gifts you’ve given me with others. I often feel like I am not worthy of carrying such a message. Who am I that people should listen to me? Help me overcome my own limiting beliefs. Replace those with boldness to proclaim you as Savior and King. Fill my mouth with the words you’d have me to share. May I reflect you in all I say and do. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
