Wednesday, March 15, 2022

Listen to the Word

“But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Messiah.” (Mark 8:29)

The word “Messiah” in today’s verse is rendered as “Christ” in some versions of the Bible. These two names for Jesus are synonymous. “Christ” is the Greek translation of the Hebrew “Messiah.” Each name carries the meaning of “anointed one.” In ancient times, someone would be anointed with oil to symbolize the fact that they were chosen and set apart for an important task.

When Jesus arrived, people were longing for God to send his Messiah, the one he had chosen to deliver his people and set things right. When we call Jesus “Christ” or “Messiah,” we are acknowledging the fact that he is the one we have been waiting for, the fulfillment of all of our hopes and expectations. We are praising him as the one uniquely set apart by God to rescue the world.

Live the Word

Ponder for a moment how you would answer if Jesus asked you who you say he is.