12/09/2023
*Do Not Be Conformed To This World*
_(Sunday, 3rd September 2023. Read Jeremiah 20:7-9, Ps. 63:2-6,8-9, Romans 12:1-2, Matthew 16:21-27)_
_*โPresent your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.โ (Romans 12:1-2)*_
Last Sunday, we saw how Jesus gave Peter the keys to the kingdom of heaven. Whatever he binds on earth is bound in heaven, and whatever he would lose on earth is loosed in heaven. With this power and authority, Peter protested that Jesus would have to suffer, โGod forbid, Lord! This shall never happen to you.โ Peter said. Let us consider some vital lessons in todayโs readings:
*1. Never Stop Praying For Religious Leaders*
From the time of Peter to date, men and women of God have tended to abuse the enormous power and authority given to them by Jesus, the humble lamb who came not to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many. (Cf. Mark 10:45). Once we forget this fact, we become high-handed in our use of power. We could even be serving the devil's purpose without knowing it.
*2. Be Attentive in Spirit to Detect the Voice of Satan*
The devil is a liar and a master in the art of deception. He will never come as a dragon with two horns, sharp teeth or a long tail. No, he comes as a child of light, a trusted friend or lover, and he would use the most subtle manner to seduce us into sin. After trying so hard to prevent Jesus from attaining glory without the cross (at the beginning of His public ministry), the devil tried again through Peter.
Jesus did not bother to address Peter as a person. He went straight to the source: โGet behind me, Satan. You are a hindrance to me, for you are not on the side of God but of men.โ If we listen very well, suggestions from friends, co-workers and colleagues when facing difficulties or trials are subtle inspirations of the devil. This is why we must be alert in spiri