Devotion:
Read Matthew 16:15-23.
Jesus had taken his apostles away to Caesarea Philippi, a beautiful spot in the northern part of Galilee at the scenic headwaters of the Jordan River. When he asked them who they think he is, Simon answered perfectly, “You are the Messiah (the Christ), the Son of the living God.” Jesus responded with a glowing affirmation of Simon, saying that God had revealed this truth to him and giving him the new name of Petros, Peter, which means “the Rock.” Jesus stated that he will build his church on the rock of faith like that of Peter’s.
Just when Peter must have thought he had arrived, he stumbled! When Jesus shared with them how he would be crucified and resurrected, Peter took him aside to argue that this shall never happen. Jesus humbled Peter by telling him that Satan is now speaking through him in order to tempt Jesus. Peter was human, and he loved Jesus as a fellow human being. Jesus was teaching a tough lesson to Peter to think beyond human relationships and to seek spiritual truths. We too get the right answers at times, and we discover deep and wonderful truths in the faith; but we also get it wrong at times and always have more to learn with God’s help and guidance.
Personal Worship Option:
Pray today for an open heart and a searching mind. Give thanks for the truths we know and can hold onto and ask for enlightenment to keep right on learning new and deeper things through the Holy Spirit.
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