Gospel: Matthew 16:21-27
21From that time on, Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and undergo great suffering at the hands of the elders and chief priests and scribes and be killed and on the third day be raised. 22And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him, saying, “God forbid it, Lord! This must never happen to you.” 23But he turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a hindrance to me, for you are setting your mind not on divine things but on human things.”
24Then Jesus told his disciples, “If any wish to come after me, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 25For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will find it. 26For what will it profit them if they gain the whole world but forfeit their life? Or what will they give in return for their life?
27“For the Son of Man is to come with his angels in the glory of his Father, and then he will repay everyone for what has been done.
Reflection:
Today’s gospel is from Matthew 16:21-27. In the gospel, Jesus begins to reveal to His disciples the path that awaits Him. This is the path of suffering, rejection, and the cross. There is a great message Jesus is telling His disciples so the people will also know. Generations to generations will know this message.
What message does Jesus wants us to learn? It is clear that Jesus said “If you wish to come after me, take your cross and follow me.” This word may not be that heavy to those who did not understand, but this is a clear revelation to us.
Matthew 16:21-27 reminds us that we should carry our own cross and follow Jesus to walk through heaven. In this life we may find ourselves resisting the trials and tribulations that come our way. Yet Jesus reminds us that the path of discipleship may include its share of hardships.
Matthew 16:21-27 tell us the heart of Christian discipleship – self-denial. We must all carry our own crosses. It’s a call to surrender our own desires, comforts, and ambitions to follow Christ. The cross symbolizes sacrifice. Jesus emphasizes that this is not an option but a fundamental need of discipleship.
In our daily lives, we are to examine our priorities and make choices. Are we willing to embrace the challenges that come our way? Can we let go of our own plans and ambitions to follow Jesus with unwavering devotion?
Matthew 16:21-27 reminds us that the way of Christ is not always easy, but it is always worthwhile. As we take up our crosses and follow Him, we experience His presence, His peace, and the promise of eternal life. Whatever your burden may be today may it be family matters, finances, work, all we must surrender to Him. The only way to surpass it all is none other than Jesus alone. Trust and you will have what your heart desires the most. – Clea | Helpline PH
