Daily Gospel Reflection for February 17, 2023

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: Mark 8:34-9:1

Jesus is pretty blunt in today’s Gospel. He tells the crowd that there are two ways things can go once life on this earth is over: either you can save your life or you can lose it. Sometimes the sacrifices we’re called to make in the interest of saving our eternal lives seem unfair, unwieldy, impossible.

Sometimes it’s not clear which decision amounts to saving one’s life in the here and now and which amounts to losing it. Human beings are complicated and nuanced. Our relationships are complex. Situations are rarely so cut and dry. And when we are jaded, tired, or stressed, it can be hard to see that narrow path to salvation clearly.

But we’re not called to do the heavy lifting on our own. Jesus tells the crowd—and by extension, us—that we must deny ourselves, take up our crosses, and follow Him. Elsewhere, He says that the burden is easy and His yoke is light. He wants to help us walk the road to life. Just listen to the way He tries to convince the crowd: “What profit is there for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life? What could one give in exchange for his life?”

He’s asking, what could you possibly want that’s better than what I have for you? Do you have any idea how valuable you are? Ultimately, Christ is asking here the same questions God asks throughout the Bible, namely, do you trust Me? Can I help you?

Jesus offers an invitation today, not only to eternal life, but also to life with Him right now, today, in the everyday moments of our lives—those moments that seem inconsequential, but pave the way to our ultimate destination. Draw near to Him. He wants you by His side.

Ponder:

What keeps me from drawing near to the Lord in struggles—fear, doubt, pride, shame? How can I begin to let these things go?

Pray:

Jesus, You have told me what I need to do to follow you to eternal life. Grant me the strength, the courage, and the grace to stay close to You each day.

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Jesus offers an invitation, not only to eternal life, but also to life with Him right now, today, in the everyday moments that seem inconsequential, but pave the way to our ultimate destination. #DailyGospel

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