Reading God’s Word: Mark 8:31–9:13; Psalm 88:10-18

Memorizing God’s Word: Mark 8:34, Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.

Meditating on God’s Word: Mark 8:34, Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.

Praying God’s Word: “Lord, you spoke plainly, but Peter did not like what you said. Truthfully, there are times when I do not like what you say. Deny myself? What? Why would I want to do that? ‘I tell you the truth’ (9:1) and ‘Listen to him!’ (9:7) should give me all the explanation I need. I want it to be enough, Lord. I know you don’t object to my questions, but my answers need to point me to you and only you. Your will (not mine) be done! Amen.”