Devotion
Get Behind Me, Satan
Frances Taylor

In today's passage, Peter is trying to prevent Jesus from doing anything that will bring about his suffering and death. Peter is putting up a roadblock. We can all be guilty of that at times, or we can listen to others who put up roadblocks for us. What do I mean? Doing the right thing can be unpopular. Sometimes it means going beyond our comfort zone, reaching out in order that others might have the same advantages we take for granted. Sometimes it means preventing someone we care about from doing what is dangerous or illegal. There are times when we have to choose to support others, even when it might mean they are putting themselves in harm's way. My sister volunteered at a literacy center while she was in college even though it meant working in a neighborhood that was known for its violence. People volunteer today to travel to the poorest parts of the world in order that people learn how to stay healthy, have an education, have shelter and clean food and water. Most of us are not called to missionary work in other countries, or even in the poorer areas of our own country. But all of us are called to support those who are in whatever ways we can, and we are expected to be witnesses to the love of God. That could mean something as simple as not choosing sports over church, treating others in the workplace or school with kindness, choosing to get to know the new worker, fellow student, family. It's not too late to make a New Year's resolution to not be a roadblock in the lives of others, but a beacon that shows the way to Christ.

Prayer

Lord, may I never be a stumbling block to another's desire to please you, and never let fear be a reason for not following your will for me. Amen.