2/3 Quiet Time (Luke 9:18-36 ESV)

18 Now it happened that as he was praying alone, the disciples were with him. And he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” 19 And they answered, “John the Baptist. But others say, Elijah, and others, that one of the prophets of old has risen.” 20 Then he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” And Peter answered, “The Christ of God.” 21 And he strictly charged and commanded them to tell this to no one, 22 saying, “The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised.” 23 And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. 24 For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. 25 For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself? 26 For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. 27 But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God.” 28 Now about eight days after these sayings he took with him Peter and John and James and went up on the mountain to pray. 29 And as he was praying, the appearance of his face was altered, and his clothing became dazzling white. 30 And behold, two men were talking with him, Moses and Elijah, 31 who appeared in glory and spoke of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. 32 Now Peter and those who were with him were heavy with sleep, but when they became fully awake they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him. 33 And as the men were parting from him, Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good that we are here. Let us make three tents, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah”—not knowing what he said. 34 As he was saying these things, a cloud came and overshadowed them, and they were afraid as they entered the cloud. 35 And a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is my Son, my Chosen One; listen to him!” 36 And when the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. And they kept silent and told no one in those days anything of what they had seen.

A true follower of Jesus would "deny himself and take up his cross daily" (v.23).

Have I been denying myself daily? My daily thoughts, words, and actions reflect a desire for more comfort and security in my personal life. How hard do I try to keep myself uncomfortable and leave my comfort zone? When was the last time I truly thought about glorifying God with my life?

 

I'm just like Peter, who makes the right confession about Jesus, but simultaneoulsy wants to remain in that moment of glory and comfort, making three tents for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah (v.33). I know that Jesus is the Messiah and God's Son. I would probably give Jesus the same answer if He asked me who I thought He is. But I also desire security with the people I'm comfortable with.

You've given me a new life and You've made me Yours; You've given me so much peace in my life, LORD! But I've forgotten about Your grace and all that You've done for me.

 

LORD, break into my heart and cleanse me with Your blood. In everything I do, I want to do them to please You. I want to desire You and want to get to know You better.