"When it looks like we're losing, that's when Jesus is winning."

In this powerful exploration of Matthew 16:21-28, we're challenged to reexamine our understanding of victory in God's kingdom. The central message revolves around Peter's profound confession of Jesus as the Messiah, followed by his misguided rebuke when Jesus speaks of His impending death. This juxtaposition serves as a stark reminder that knowing who Jesus is isn't enough – we must also understand how He wins. The passage emphasizes that God's victory often looks like defeat in the world's eyes, exemplified by Jesus' path to the cross. We're called to embrace this paradox, denying ourselves and taking up our own crosses. This message resonates deeply with our daily struggles, reminding us that when we feel we're losing, we may actually be winning in God's economy. It's a call to resist the temptation of worldly power and instead embrace the transformative power that comes only by knowing how God wins.