Devotion:
Read Matthew 16:13-16.
Yesterday, we looked at how the relationship between Jesus and some of his closest disciples began. He invited them to follow and learn from him and they accepted his invitation. In the passage for today, their relationship with him has gone to a much deeper level. When Jesus asks his initial question, they share that a lot of people do not understand who he is. But Peter lets him know that they know who he is: he is the Messiah, the One who God had promised to send to save the world.
At the end of our worship services at Christ Church, I often say “We invite you to begin or deepen a relationship with Jesus Christ.” In our devotion yesterday, we focused on beginning that relationship. Today our focus is on taking it to a deeper level. I believe Jesus is always inviting us to go to a deeper (or higher) level of commitment to him; to a deeper understanding of his teaching; to a deeper involvement in participating in his mission in the world.
We can only accomplish this deeper level of relationship by staying in constant contact with him. We do that both individually, through our personal prayer life and Bible study, as well as with other Christians, through worship, study, fellowship, service to others and care for each other.
There is a danger of reaching a point of satisfaction in our relationship with Christ, not wanting to go any deeper. It would be like reaching third grade in school and deciding that’s where we wanted to stay in our level of knowledge and understanding for the rest of our life. Instead, just as we move forward into deeper levels of understanding in school, there is always more to learn spiritually.
Personal Worship Option:
What are you doing to intentionally deepen your relationship with Jesus Christ and your understanding of living his way?
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