January 18th, 2024

Today is January 18th.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”

Today is the day when Christians around the world remember the disciple Peter’s confession of faith in Christ. Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew chapter 16.


When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades[c] will not overcome it.


Jesus asks his disciples who other people say that he is. Who do people around you say Jesus was? A really wise philosopher? A spiritual leader? A perfect person? Or a regular sinner like you and me?

Jesus then asks his disciples, “Who do you say I am?” Jesus always makes it personal for us. At that moment Peter realized that Jesus of Nazareth was Jesus the Christ, God’s long-awaited Messiah. He wasn’t just a great man, or a brilliant teacher, or an incisive prophet. He was and is the Christ, the Son of God. God’s revelation always happens over time, just like it did with Peter. As you hear the passage read again, consider how you have increasingly become aware of who Jesus is to you.

As we close our time, ask Jesus to continue to reveal himself to you as you walk through your day.

Lord God, Almighty and everlasting Father, you have brought me in safety to this new day: Preserve me with your mighty power, that I may not fall into sin, nor be overcome by adversity; and in all I do, direct me to the fulfilling of your purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Music: "Jesus Beautiful - Vineyard Worship (YouTube)