Welcome!
As this week’s passage opens, Jesus and his disciples are traveling near Caesarea Philippi, a region filled with shrines, idols, and competing claims about who holds real power. In that setting, Jesus turns to his disciples and asks, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” They repeat the rumors circulating among the crowds: John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets returned. Then Jesus presses closer. “But who do you say that I am?” For a moment, the group hesitates. The question is personal now, no longer about public opinion, but about conviction. Then Peter steps forward with clarity and courage: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” That same question reaches across time to us. Jesus still asks his followers, “Who do you say that I am?” It’s not enough to echo what others believe or rely on borrowed faith. His question demands our own answer, an answer that will shape our trust, our choices, and the very foundation of our lives. So, when Jesus looks at you and asks, “Who am I to you?” how will you respond?
 
Image of Jesus showing us the pathway to eternity. 
 
But you,” he said to them, “who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
 
Lord Jesus, you are the Christ, the Son of the living God. As Peter confessed, so we confess together: You are our Rock, our Redeemer, our King. Upon the foundation of your truth, build your Church in love and faith. Give us the keys of your kingdom, that we may open the way for the lost, bind what is evil, and loose what is good. Keep us steadfast in unity, bold in witness, and humble in service, until your glory is revealed to all. Amen.
Scripture:  Matthew 16: 15-16 (NCB)
Image: “We Will Walk in His Paths With Jesus.’ Artist: Graham Braddock. Licensed through GoodSalt.com. 
Margin Image: Licensed through GoodSalt.com