Calling the crowd to join his disciples, he said, “Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You’re not in the driver’s seat; I am. Don’t run from suffering; embrace it. 
Follow me, and I’ll show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to saving yourself, 

your true self. ”
 (Mark 8: 34-35 The Message)

Mark 8: 27-35

Jesus calls us to think differently and to act differently. He came to give and not to take. We are loved, and everything we receive is of and comes from God.

Jesus calls us to follow him as he leads and guides us along the path set out for us. Jesus is “the driver” of our life, and to get where God wants us, we need to follow his directions and trust his navigation.

These verses invite us to evaluate the cost of true discipleship. We are called to self-sacrifice and self-denial so that we may be saved. 

We must ensure we don’t compromise our faith by conforming to societal norms. As Jesus laid down his life for us, we must be willing to do the same. True life, purpose and fulfilment are found in surrendering ourselves to God, even at the risk of losing the approval of those around us.

Reflections by Gillian Hugo

Dear Lord, 
May we respond to the invitation to take up our cross, deny ourselves and follow you. May our lives be dedicated to you. May we proclaim your truth and find our identity
 and purpose in you.
Amen.

Visit our website