Fulness of Jesus' ministry

9-13-21
Today’s devotion is based on Mark 8:32, “Peter took [Jesus] aside and began to rebuke him.”

In this Gospel reading, we see Peter declare that Jesus is the Messiah, only to be rebuked by Jesus soon after for not getting what that meant. Peter was in over his head here. Just as I was an inexperienced and young teacher, so Peter was an inexperienced and young Christian. He forgot – or perhaps failed to grasp – precisely what the fullness of Jesus’ ministry meant.

At the beginning of our faith as new believers, we find ourselves well over our heads – unable to fully grasp what it is to live the Christian life. Those who have years of faith behind us can still be like Peter and the first disciples, failing to grasp all of what it is to be a Christian and follower of Christ.
As followers of Christ, we must commit ourselves to learn and to grow to know what this means for us each day. Let us diligently seek God’s grace, wisdom, and guidance as we grow in the knowledge of what is meant to follow Christ rather than the world or our selfish desires.
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Please pray with me today’s prayer: Lord, may we approach your throne with humility and the knowledge that you are the author and perfecter of our faith. Please help us grow in knowing what it is to take up the cross of Christ and follow you. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.