Human Concerns

21 From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.
22 Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. "Never, Lord!" he said. "This shall never happen to you!"
23 Jesus turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns."
Matthew 16:21-23



Last evening I spoke some words to my wife Paula that should have never been spoken. My mind was consumed with human concerns; concerns about crabby neighbors and property values; what would appear to be a no win situation as far as the place in which we live and the dream of living in peace with the lost and broken souls who live next door. Then this morning, God, as He usually does, reminds me of the cross that He had to bear; He reminds me of the humiliation, suffering unconscionable pain and separation from God that He endured for all of us who call Him Lord. So, today I am humbled and ever so thankful for Jesus, the price that He paid on the cross and the beautiful blessing of my wife Paula with whom He lets me enjoy life. May I never take for granted all that He has done for me, and I pray that the Master Healer would heal the brokenness of my heart that so easily runs toward my own selfish concerns easily replacing the concerns of God which bring life, love and peace unimaginable. Be careful today, as I will, to be considerate of the things of God as He deserves all of our love and devotion today. Keep your eyes on Jesus as you live your life for the King!