Matthew 16

There is so much in this chapter to meditate on this morning.  I have decided to pick verse 24-26 for me to think on all day; I encourage you to do the same.

Matt. 16:24-6 Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone desires come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?

            In verse 24 Jesus gives three commands (i.e., imperatives) to the person who “desires to come after” Jesus; they must deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Jesus.

Ponder on each one today as you go through your day. These are not optional according to Jesus; they are the heart of what it means to be His disciple.  So, what does it look like for you and I to deny ourselves. . . take up our cross. . .  and follow Jesus?

Please give me some feedback on this one.