Today’s Reading: Mark 10:32-45; Matthew 20:17-19; Luke 18:31-34; Psalm 56

As we look over the gospel accounts, we see moments when Jesus spoke clearly to the disciples about what was coming. They heard yet they did not fully understand. Something was about to happen that would forever change them. They could feel the anticipation and fear of what was to come, but they were confused about God’s larger plan that was unfolding. Can you relate to how they were feeling?

SOMETIMES WE CONTINUE MOVING FORWARD REGARDLESS OF THE CONFUSION, FEAR AND ANTICIPATION.

“Listen,” he said, “we’re going up to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be betrayed to the leading priests and the teachers of religious law. They will sentence him to die and hand him over to the Romans. They will mock him, spit on him, flog him with a whip, and kill him, but after three days he will rise again.” – Mark 10:33-34

“…Are you able to drink from the bitter cup of suffering I am about to drink? Are you able to be baptized with the baptism of suffering I must be baptized with?…” – Mark 10:38b

“…For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Mark 10:45

Jesus replied, “My light will shine for you just a little longer. Walk in the light while you can, so the darkness will not overtake you. Those who walk in the darkness cannot see where they are going. Put your trust in the light while there is still time; then you will become children of light.” – John 12:35-36a

There have been many times in my life when I was able to look back and see the evidence of how God had been preparing me for my current situation. I did not understand at the time, but later God increased my understanding. Looking back, I can see how various experiences in my life were shaping me into the person I needed to be for God’s plan. I can look back and see how God was revealing, little by little, things I needed to learn for a future purpose.

Because I can look back on yesterday, as the disciples did,
and understand NOW what God was teaching me THEN,
I can trust Him with my TODAY
knowing that God has a plan for my TOMORROW.

But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in you…
This I know: God is on my side!
I praise God for what he has promised…
I trust in God, so why should I be afraid?
What can mere mortals do to me?
I will fulfill my vows to you, O God, and will offer a sacrifice of thanks for your help.
For you have rescued me from death; you have kept my feet from slipping.
So now I can walk in your presence, O God, in your life-giving light. – Psalm 56:3, 9-13