I walked today where Jesus walked
In days of long ago.
I wandered down each path He knew,
With reverent step and slow.

Those little lanes, they have not changed,
A sweet peace fills the air.
I walked today where Jesus walked,
And felt His presence there.

These beautiful words by David S. Twohig, set to music, could be echoed by each of the 43 members of our church last summer, as we slowly walked down the narrow, ancient, stoned street called the Via Dolorosa. You had the desire to remove your shoes – just to touch the stones where our Savior carried the burden of our sins on the heavy cross to Calvary. It would have been like “touching the hem of His garment”.

In verse twenty three of the ninth chapter of Luke, Jesus is not talking about how His disciples may help to prevent His suffering. Rather, He is saying we are to prepare for our own suffering. Just a few years ago our minds could not have even conceived of our faith being tested in ways we are now witnessing every day around the world. Are we ready? The scripture is simply saying, we must turn from our selfish ways and take up OUR CROSS, daily, as His followers.

Pray:

Adoration: God is holy, mighty, gracious, and merciful. Spend time declaring your love for Him and expressing your thoughts of praise and worship.

Confession: Ask God to search your heart and reveal any areas of unconfessed sin. Acknowledge these to the Lord and thank Him for His forgiveness.

Thanksgiving: Express your thankfulness to God for the blessings He has given you. When we consider that we deserve punishment because of our sinfulness, and instead God gives to us His love and mercy, our only response should be one of thankfulness.

Supplication: Petition God regarding your family and your ministry. Ask for help and guidance in sharing your Jesus with others and helping others grow in Him. Offer prayers concerning your activities for this day and any special concerns you may have. Intercede on behalf of local, national, and world missions. Pray the Great Commission would be fulfilled and for any special concerns you may have for missions.