First, Jesus empowers his Twelve disciples, granting them authority to heal, cast out demons, and preach the kingdom of God. Their work produces abundant fruit, comparable to fertile soil.

Herod, however, responds differently. He represents the path that rejects the seed. Upon hearing about Jesus, Herod speculates whether he is John the Baptist, Elijah, or another prophet raised from the dead. Herod desires to meet Jesus, but their encounter only takes place during Jesus’ trials prior to his crucifixion.

During the feeding of the thousands, the focus shifts from Jesus’ teachings and healing to the disciples’ faith, which still remains shallow despite witnessing Jesus’ power. Jesus intervenes, miraculously feeding the people and leaving enough leftovers. This remarkable event is recorded in all four Gospels.

Jesus then asks his disciples who they believe he is, and Peter correctly identifies him as the Christ of God. Jesus foretells his death and challenges the disciples to follow his example.

Peter, James, and John witness Jesus’ glorious transformation, while the other disciples struggle to free a possessed boy. Jesus once again performs a miraculous act that the disciples should have been able to accomplish through their faith.

The final three stories of Jesus’ Galilean ministry reveal that the disciples still lack understanding regarding Jesus’ purpose. When Jesus predicts his death, the disciples become confused. They engage in an argument about greatness and reject a stranger who casts out demons in Jesus’ name, demonstrating their prioritization of status within the inner circle rather than submission to Jesus’ authority.

Continuing the theme of the disciples’ misunderstanding, a Samaritan village refuses to offer hospitality. James and John suggest calling down fire to destroy the village, reflecting their incorrect perception of miraculous powers as tools for accumulating power rather than blessing others. Jesus rebukes them, and they continue on their journey.

Lastly, Luke employs flashbacks and an original story to highlight the requirements for Jesus’ disciples. Disciples must be willing to let go of comfort, worldly responsibilities, and even family. They need to be prepared to sacrifice their earthly lives in order to gain eternal life. Matthew also recounts Jesus’ interactions with two individuals.

The main verses that stood out for me were 9:23-27. I think in life we pick up the cross, then life gets in the way and we lay it back down. We need to be in His word daily or sin will seep back into our souls.

It’s a huge comfort that Jesus is God’s chosen one. That means he was specifically picked and fully equipped to be the Messiah. Jesus talks to his disciples about his own sufferings and death. But here’s the thing: instead of trying to stop his sufferings, they need to prepare themselves for their own challenges. Sometimes we face tough situations while doing what we’re supposed to, and while we shouldn’t go looking for trouble, when it comes, we gotta handle it like Jesus did. Our happiness depends on the state of our souls, not just our bodies. Even if our bodies are going through a tough time, our souls can still find joy. We should never be ashamed of standing up for Christ and his message.

And never stop carrying the cross! ever!