James 3:1-12

Mark 8:27-38

They compare Jesus with John and Elijah and then call him Messiah. But Peter's idea of Messiah is a long way removed from the vision of Jesus.  Jesus doesn't want a Statement of Faith - he wants more than words he wants costly action.

James is concerned that words are used to cause pain, spark destruction, spread poison - and reveal our true heart - how can we bless God and curse people with the same tongue?

Parents, Godparents and congregation have made baptismal promises - we need to put them into action  - being part of a faith community will help her to know some of the choices before her and to decide in later life whether she wants to confirm her baptism

The way of the cross is to follow and to copy the way of Jesus on the vulnerable walk of discipleship. Jesus does not ask for statements of belief - that is the church deciding who belongs - Jesus demands action -  follow - come and see, experience, learn, act, experience, learn, act - how does your following the way of the cross impact on the way you live your daily life - and the goals of your life?

The way of the cross is about putting our old life aside, perhaps a life in which our words spark destruction, spread poison - perhaps a life in which our word means very little, which seems to be taking us no where other than down the same old road and invites us to experience life in all it’s fullness. That may not be easy, it may involve sacrifice, painful endings, grief, shame, but what will emerge is a new life, an abundant life being lived to it’s full potential as God intends - can we dare to seek such life along the way of the cross?