Thursday – February 26

Scripture for the Day:
Once when Jesus was praying alone, with only the disciples near him, he asked them, ‘Who do the crowds say that I am?’ They answered, ‘John the Baptist; but others, Elijah; and still others, that one of the ancient prophets has arisen.’ He said to them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’ Peter answered, ‘The Messiah of God.’ He sternly ordered and commanded them not to tell anyone, saying, ‘The Son of Man must undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, chief priests, and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised.’ Then he said to them all, ‘If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will save it. What does it profit them if they gain the whole world, but lose or forfeit themselves? – Luke 9:18-25

Reflection –

As Jesus revealed his destiny to His disciples as “the Messiah of Man” he asked them “not to speak of it” but rather follow him. As Christians and followers, we too have a destiny far greater than this world. In this world, our society teaches “try to preserve your image, it’s every one for himself or herself.” Our egos, the illusion of success, “keeping up,” seem to be a blatant theme. Somehow, we are falsely led to believe that who we are is determined by the many possessions we acquire. We may think, “I am my job title,” “I am my bank account balance,” “I am the expensive car I drive,” or “I am this designer suit.” We somehow think we gain status or merit based on these things. In truth, none of this will bring our souls greater merit or peace of mind. Jesus invites us in this scripture, ”To leave all worldliness behind.” It doesn’t just mean our excess in materialism but to also surrender our pride, our egos, our walls that keep out His immense love for us. When we accepted Christ as Savior, he established permanent residency in us. His great light entered our hearts and we were made new! Jesus says to lose it, the “I did it my way” attitude or even the need to be in control. Where is there room for God to dwell? For God to speak to you? How can Christ enter in? Sometimes the mind is too complex to receive the simple truth. He just enters when we least expect Him. We experience a bolt of His Love and presence.

To ponder and pray: Who are you without the titles and labels of society?
Claim the Spirit of Christ who dwells within you. Surrender to the storehouse of Peace and Grace so that you may daily experience the fruits of God’s Spirit. “What meaning is your life if you gain the world and lose your soul?”