Rev Michael Anokye: LENT 2024 – Monday March 19TH 2024
“WHO DO YOU SAY I AM?”
Prayer:
Dear Father, I pray to you in Jesus’ name to help me identify any areas of fear that may be hidden in my life. As your Word teaches us that faith comes from hearing your Word, I will strengthen my faith today by reading and acting on it. Thank you, Father, for the protection you provide when I have faith in you. Amen.
Reading: Mark 8:27-33 – Read HERE
Jesus and his disciples went to the villages around Caesarea Philippi. Jesus asked them, “Who do people say I am?” They answered, “John the Baptist, Elijah, or one of the prophets.” Then Jesus asked, “But who do you say I am?” Peter replied, “You are the Messiah.” Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about him. He taught them that the Son of Man must suffer, be rejected, and die but rise again after three days. Peter rebuked Jesus, but he rebuked Peter, saying, “Get behind me, Satan! You have human concerns, not God’s.”
Reflection
It can be challenging to hear predictions of bad things, even if they are unrealistic. In the Bible, Peter was upset when Jesus talked about how he would suffer and be rejected. He believed the Messiah should be robust, glorious, and always victorious, not someone who would face defeat. Jesus rebuked Peter and explained that His death and great suffering would not be final. Jesus’ statements were sometimes challenging for the apostles and us. Sometimes, the apostles only recognised and wondered what He meant after the incident.
Jesus explained to his followers about His impending death, but He did not give them any details about how He would rise again. This made Peter anxious and uncertain about the concept of resurrection. It could be interpreted that Peter lacked faith in Jesus’ ability to rise from the dead. Jesus wants us to have faith in Him, just as He taught His apostles.
If Jesus asked the same question he posed to His apostles, “Who do you say that I am?” How would you respond? Can you confidently answer, “You are God”? And what does your answer mean to you?”
Let us pray:
Dear God, I am feeling restricted by fear and anxiety about the future and the unknown. However, I firmly believe You have a greater purpose for me, and these concerns are only tests of faith that will eventually pass. Please help me to remember that You are the Messiah and always faithful and that I am safe in Your hands. I pray that You will purify my viewpoints and connect my emotions with Yours. You are the most loving and trustworthy God, and I rely on You. Amen
Discussion Pointers:
What are some areas of uncertainty in your life where you need the clarity of the Lord today?
Can you name those things in your life where you need God’s perfect plan and timing for restoration?
How can you establish yourself and remain firmly rooted in Christ in your family, church, and workplace.