Devotion:
For an audio version of this devotion, click here.
Read Matthew 16:13.
Jesus asks, "Who do people say the Son of Man is?", moving moment beyond public opinion to challenge his disciples' personal conviction. This question demands a personal response regarding Jesus' identity as the Messiah, shifting faith from hearsay to a deeply rooted belief of him as Savior and King. Jesus asks what others say, but the true focus is what we(you) say. It is not enough to know the religious rhetoric or to admire Jesus as a prophet or good teacher; he demands a verdict on his divinity.
Just as Peter’s statement that Jesus is "the Christ, the Son of the living God" was not just repeating someone else’s thought but his personal understanding of Jesus. It comes through a divine revelation. It requires our hearts to be opened by the God. This transformation is the rock upon which the Church is built. Knowing Jesus as the Son of the living God means he is the Lord of our lives, not just a historical figure. This question leads to the invitation to take up the cross, follow him, and align our lives with his kingdom rather than our own. If Jesus asked you today, "Who do you say I am?", what would your answer be? Is he just a part of your life, or is he the Savior and focus of your life?
Personal Worship Option:
Dear God, thank you for sending me Jesus, as my Savior. Help me to live in that truth daily, following you, and not just talking about you. Amen

