The Good News
What’s the word on the streets? What are they saying about me? Who do they say I am? These are questions that make up opinion polls across America. Opinions are personal commentary on what they feel only at the moment they are asked. Opinions change as quickly as the weather. So why does Jesus ask the same questions of his disciples as they walk to more villages to minister to those who need it most?
Mark 8, The Message
THE MESSIAH
27 Jesus and his disciples headed out for the villages around Caesarea Philippi. As they walked, he asked, “Who do the people say I am?”
28 “Some say ‘John the Baptizer,’” they said. “Others say ‘Elijah.’ Still others say ‘one of the prophets.’”
29 He then asked, “And you—what are you saying about me? Who am I?”
These guys have left everything behind to follow The Messiah, and yet He asks a poignant question, on this day, of just walking along the road to “seek and to save” lost people, fulfilling the mission. I wonder why. I’ve always wondered why when I read this. Are we so dull that we have to be asked who Jesus really is…in the midst of ministry? Do our opinions change in the heat of ministry details? Does Jesus stop us when we are at the brink of discouragement of taking on too much by ourselves and ask, “Who am I”? Is the question for our own self examination so we will pause in the middle of it all and refocus on The Messiah and the mission He gave us?
“What are they saying about me?” This questions causes me to tremble because what “they” think and say about Jesus could have a lot to do with what I am saying about Jesus. It could have even more to do with how I am behaving in front of those seeking to find Jesus, the only One who can mend their broken hearts and save their souls.
“And you–what are you saying about Me?” –Jesus
Dear Heavenly Father, In just a few words, You have our undivided attention today. And we repent. We refocus on WHO you are and ask for boldness and clarity to declare that YOU are Messiah, the Savior of the world AND Lord of our lives. You give Life abundant! You bring Light to all the dark places of our souls. Only You can calm our storms and bring healing and refreshment on this brief journey here until You call us home to be where You are. You are peace. You are wisdom, insight and understanding. You are God and we are not. We pray this will be sent to all who need to answer the same question…”Who am I?” “What are you saying about me?”
In Jesus Name, Amen. I believe.
Daily Manna (Coffee with Jesus) 