Jesus had just given Peter the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven... and only moments later He says to him:
Because Peter wanted to protect Jesus from the cross. But Jesus makes it clear that there is no Resurrection without the Cross.
In this week's ALIVE, Fr. Jonathan Meyer reflects on Matthew 16 and reminds us that we all face crosses in our lives. The temptation is to escape them—to numb the pain with distractions, entertainment, technology, or anything that keeps us from embracing what God is doing.
But Christ offers a different path:
✝️ Take up your cross.
The promise of the Gospel is that behind every cross is a resurrection. There is hope. There is healing. There is new life.
What cross am I trying to avoid?Where am I tempted to numb my pain instead of entrusting it to Christ?How is Jesus inviting me to trust Him more deeply today?Discussion questions are included below. Share this video with someone who needs hope and encouragement.
"If anyone wishes to come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me." — Matthew 16
God bless, and thank you for watching ALIVE!
22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time- September 3
Matthew 16:21-27
What is the message or story?
What is the Good News in this passage?
Why did Jesus have to suffer in Jerusalem? Why was this necessary?
Have you ever had a friend or family member who suffered greatly?
If you were Peter, would you have acted differently (tried to stop the suffering)?
Why is suffering important- redemptive?
What does Jesus call Peter?
How easy is it to think as human beings and not like God? What are tips or ways to help us think like God?
We are called to deny ourselves. This is true in all aspects of life, give some examples?
The world wants us to seek after pleasure and comfort; does this ever work?
We will be repaid according to our conduct. What has your conduct been like? Do you need confession?