If we want to follow Christ, we must follow, obey, and approach life with a new way of thinking. When we answer the call to follow Christ, we start anew. Our new birth enables us to lay claim to a new will directed by Christ and a new purpose that leads to eternity with Christ. Jesus’ call to radical discipleship individually, coupled with Paul’s radical message of holy living for the beloved community, defines our call to the Christian life. It’s the challenge Jesus extends to all who would follow him. Jesus’ teaching has an eschatological focus, but we live in the present. Peter shifts his focus from the realm of heavenly thoughts to those of the world; he begins to think in an inappropriate way. As Jesus tells Peter: “You are setting your mind not on divine things but on human things.” Peter, in his understanding of Messiah, cannot fathom anything other than stunning success.
Each of us faces the challenge of being Christian. Christ directs us to love God with our whole selves and to love our neighbors as completely as we love ourselves. Living a life that evidences such love is the epitome of a holy life: one that seeks justice for all, shows kindness and compassion to all, and walks in humility with God.
The Christian life depends on faith in Christ and a denial of self for the good of the community. It is a life in which thought and action based on love align and reflect the kingdom of God. We meet the challenge only by living in Christ’s presence and reflecting Christ’s light to the glory of God.