09/01/2026
What does it really mean to follow Jesus? In Matthew 16, Jesus calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow him. Not as passive passengers hoping for the best, but as committed disciples walking behind him with open hands.
Like Peter, we often get the title of Jesus right while clinging to our own script for what he should do. We want a crown without a cross. But Jesus gently and firmly calls us back into line: your place is behind me.
Romans 12 shows us what this looks like on a Tuesday morning. Genuine love without pretense. Rejoicing with those who rejoice. Weeping with those who weep. Overcoming evil not with retaliation, but with radical, self-giving goodness.
The way of the cross is not the path to death. It is the only road that leads to Easter morning. Uncurl your fist. Open your hand. Fall in behind Jesus.