22nd Sunday of Ordinary Time
SABBATH GUIDE
22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Jeremiah 20:7-9 | Psalm 63 | Romans 12:1-2 | Matthew 16:21-27
“Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.”Matthew 16:24-25
Quickly pulling Jesus aside, after a glimpse of the plan for humanity’s salvation, Peter responds the way many of us might in the same situation, “God forbid, Lord! No such thing shall ever happen to you” (Mt 16:22). The scathing reply of Jesus - “Get behind me, Satan! You are an obstacle to me. You are thinking not as God does, but as human beings do” (Mt 16:23) - on the surface, seems harsh - that Jesus would liken Peter to Satan - especially when a few verses prior, He appointed Peter as the rock on which his earthly church will rest!
Following and fulfilling the specific purpose of God was and is the unwavering intent of Christ, a pursuit that was the redemption of people of every age. Reacting hastily, Peter does not allow his eyes time to adjust to the grand vision of God - Whose vision involved Peter as well. The purpose of Jesus was to save us; like Peter, we often need to be reminded to get out of our way so Christ can do what He came to do and not stumble under the perceived difficulty that faith demands nor adopt the thoughts of the world, but rather, "be transformed by the renewal of your mind," so that we are able to "discern what is the will of God.” (Romans 12:2).
In truth, there is not a single person whom God has created without a specific purpose; our honor and duty is to participate in the purpose He has for us. The Christian life looks foolish to the world; it can be difficult to stay faithful to the small, humble, and obedient way that Jesus asks us to follow - an existence that involves ongoing denial even as we hope and await the coming reward that Jesus says God is sure to grant all those who willingly deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him.
Jesus tells his disciples that he will suffer and die. How do you respond to the idea of suffering for your faith? In what ways might we also be thinking “not as God does”, but “as human beings”?
What do you think is the specific purpose that God has for you? How can we help others to find their purpose in life?
What are some ways in which the Christian life may look foolish to the world? What are some perceived difficulties that faith demands and how can we overcome them? How do you stay motivated to continue following Jesus even when it is difficult? How do you approach times of doubt or uncertainty in your faith?