Thoughts for the Day

Jesus...said to them, 'If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For those who want to save their life will lost it, and those who lose their life for my sake, and for the sake of the gospel, will save it. For what will it profit them to gain the wole world and forfeit their life? Indeed, what can they give in return for their life? Those who are ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of them the Son of Man will also be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father.

(New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

Jesus' words are aimed at the disciples who follow him, knowing they will be facing persecution from the authorities, when he is no longer with them. In the Acts of the Apostles we see what they face. Some today still face this kind of persecution in the world for being a Christian, as can be seen in today's follow up thoughts.

We may not be faced with persecution for our faith, but in the current climate with a pandemic, we are beginning to learn about 'denying ourselves' in other ways. We are learning to put others first - to social distance or isolate ourselves in order not to put the health of others at risk - as well as to think of those less fortunate than ourselves by providing items for foodbanks, or shopping for neighbours.

Christians have long been at the forefront of community work to help others and we need to keep this going into the future.

Wednesday 9th September, follow up thoughts

Lord Jesus,
You call us to follow You,
whatever the personal cost.
Give courage to those who are
persecuted for their faith;
and teach us to deny ourselves,
while continuing to help those in need.
Amen.