We enter God's presence today and admit that we don't always embrace or live out the faith to which we have been called. Through Jesus' life, death, and resurrection, God guarantees His promises, assurances, and benefits for all who take up their cross and follow Jesus---the way, the truth, and the life. Martin Luther wrote: "This is the meaning of the word of Christ spoken here: to believe in God and to face without fear whatever may oppose and confront us."