Psalm 69: 1-23, 31-38; Exodus 1: 6-22; I Corinthians 12: 12-26; Mark 8:27-9:1

The theme of these readings is that as Christians, we will experience obstacles, hardships, sufferings, and even oppression in our walk with Christ.

David, because of his own mistakes and his love of God, experienced criticism, isolation, and persecution. The Jews were enslaved by Pharaoh, the new Egyptian king, but the Jews flourished and multiplied during this time. The disciples tried to “re-direct” Christ during his preparation process for being tortured, ridiculed, and his eventual death on the cross. The disciples did not want Christ to experience such treatment, (because they sincerely loved him) but they did not understand that by giving his life for us, he gave us eternal life if we surrender to his will and proclaim him our Savior.

We, as believers, are the body of Christ. Similarly, our church is composed of many types of people from various backgrounds, all having different gifts and abilities. It is easy for these differences to divide people and communities, but despite these differences, all believers have one thing in common: faith in Christ. Through this essential truth, the church finds unity.

We will endure obstacles, hardships, death of loved ones, periods of selfness, but God will never leave us, nor will He forsake us. We must have courage and faith to handle conflict, but most of all, we must surrender to God’s will.