Jer. 20:7-9 | Ps. 63:2-6, 8-9 | Rom. 12:1-2 | Mt. 16:21-27

All the readings call us to recognize that we are to live a life for God if we are to be disciples of God.  Paul tells us to offer our lives to God.  He urges us not to adopt the ways of the world but be transformed by the Gospel.  Jeremiah comes to a realization that to respond to God means allowing himself to be led by God in ways he would not desire on his own.  Certainly Peter exhibits this when he tries to get Jesus to give up His belief in the coming crucifixion.  Jesus’ response is certain: “Get behind me…”  In no way is Peter correct.  He must come to realize, as we must also realize, that the process of following Christ involves taking up the Cross and going where we would not desire to go on our own.  Jesus also teaches us that it is in doing so that we gain our eternal reward.

Reread these readings.  Allow their message to sink into your being.  Ask for whatever grace you need to follow Christ fully.