Readings for the Day:
Jeremiah 15:15-21: Jeremiah’s delight in the word of the Lord is contradicted by the heaviness of God’s hand upon him and God’s seeming unfaithfulness. God’s tough love to Jeremiah says that if he repents, he will be allowed to continue in his strenuous ministry. Jeremiah is strengthened by the simple words, ‘I am with you.’
Romans 12:9-21: Paul presents benchmarks for faithful relationships with Christians and non-Christians. Love is the unflagging standard of our behavior. When we encounter evil, we do not resort to its tactics but seek to overcome it with good. While Christians cannot control the actions and attitudes of others we seek to live at peace with all people.
Matthew 16:21-28: After Peter confesses that Jesus is ‘the Messiah, the Son of the living God,’ Jesus reveals the ultimate purpose of his ministry. These words prove hard to accept, even for a disciple whom Jesus has called a ‘rock.’
‘From Sunday & Seasons, copyright 2023 Augsburg Fortress’
Questions To Ponder:
1— How do you walk in faithfulness to God? (Psalm 26:3)
2—How can you show love to others this week? (Romans 12:9-21)
3—When have you felt you must ‘carry your cross? (Matthew 16:21-28)
4—How do these texts speak to you today?
Prayer: O God, we thank you for your Son, who chose the path of suffering for the sake of the world. Humble us by his example, point us to the path of obedience, and give us strength to follow your commands. Amen.