S. Mark 8:34 “Then He called the crowd to him along with His disciples and said, ‘whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”
O. Jesus spoke (v.31-32) about His coming death and resurrection. Peter rebuked Jesus for this teaching. Jesu goes on to tach that to be a Christ follower is to give up your own interests or goals and be willing to suffer; and while you do - follow Him.
A. I have tried to live this way - denying myself a vocational career in business and education, seeking to serve the Lord primarily by through His calling to His work. It is difficult at times, yet it brings the most blessing.
P. Thank you Father for the privilege of serving you. I have not always served you perfectly. Forgive me when I missed the mark. Holy Spirit fill me and guide me to a life of continued self denial, enduring difficulty and keeping myself on your pathway. In Jesus’ name!
