Matthew 14-16

The disciples are figuring out what following Jesus really means in Matthew 14-16.  They are learning how to exercise an everyday faith, and there are struggles and confusion along the way.  John the Baptist is beheaded.  It's horrible news, and Jesus is sad.  Even in his grieving, He provides a guide for us in dealing with tragedy in our lives.  He keeps serving God and others in God's love and peace.  Jesus gives His disciples a new perspective for looking at the world as He heals, prays, preaches the Good News, shows compassion to masses of people, and teaches by His example.  

We get to see poor Peter, in particular, as He fumbles to grasp the enormity of the saving grace He has in Jesus.  I smiled as I read about him today because I can see so much of myself in Peter.  Peter has Jesus and His miracles right in front of him.  He is in the middle of all the good works Jesus is doing; yet, he still has questions.  Peter is trying to understand Jesus and His faith, though, and Jesus says to him, "Are you still so dull (Matthew 15:15-16)?"  And in other places in the text, Jesus says, "You of little faith (Matthew 14:31, 16:8-10)."  

I think Jesus wants us to know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that He is the Messiah, our Savior.  His almighty power and saving grace is constant, in good times and bad.  The situation may not look good, our circumstances may seem impossible, the numbers may not add up, but as Peter knows, 

“You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”

Matthew 16:16

When the world in front of us doesn't make sense, Jesus is here with us, and he is not limited to the ways of this world.  In Him, we have all we need.  

A prayer for today-

Dear Lord and Savior,

I thank You that, in Jesus, I have all that I need.  As I read Your word, speak to my heart and refresh my soul.  Show me what you need from me this day.  I pray for those who I know are hungry for You.  

Fill ___________ with the peace of your presence and the love that will satisfy him/her/them beyond understanding. 

I pray that my actions will be a reflection of Your will, Father.

In the name of Jesus Christ I pray,

Amen

Love and peace of Christ,

*This post is part of A Mind-Maker-Upper's Everyday Reading Project.  Click here to read more.