Mosaiek Church Lent 2025: Jesus' Questions in SufferingSample

“But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Messiah.”

-Mark 8:29 (NIV)

During Lent, we identify with Jesus’ pain and suffering and are also deeply aware of our own suffering and the suffering and pain around us. Suffering can distort our image of God, making us feel as if He is distant, uninvolved, or absent from our pain. Jesus teaches that God is not a distant God, but is intimately involved in our lives, especially in our moments of suffering. Jesus himself experienced suffering and promised to walk with us through our pain. As Jesus asks the question, he also knows that the disciples’ suffering is yet to come, but that their recognition of who he is can help them as they go through it.

In today’s passage, we focus on the truth that God is with us in our suffering. When Jesus asks us, “Who do you say that I am?” he invites us to answer, “You are Emmanuel, God with us, even in the most difficult moments of life.” You are the Christ, the One who saves and heals. Lent, a season that leads us to reflect on Christ's suffering, is a time to remember that God does not abandon us in our pain. He is present with us, offering comfort, strength, and hope.

Reflection: How has suffering influenced your image of God? Do you see Him as distant or present with you in your pain? How can this Lent help you to experience God's presence in your suffering and to trust that He is with you?

Prayer: Lord, help me to be deeply aware of the true image of God.