Today’s post is has two parts. First, a summary version of this Sunday’s reading in my book, “Reaching Toward Easter.” Then, a few fun photographs from Saturday’s “Love Your Church Work-Day” here at WFPC.
Jesus redefines everything!
March 22 – The fifth Sunday in Lent: Are you one of this man’s disciples?
Peter was standing outside at the gate. So the other disciple, who was known to the high priest, went out, spoke to the woman who guarded the gate, and brought Peter in. The woman said to Peter, “You are not also one of this man’s disciples, are you?” He said, “I am not.” – John 18:16-17
Peter and the other disciples had still not managed to grasp the essential idea of Christ’s teaching.
Jesus wasn’t concerned with creating a “successful” movement according to the world’s definition of the word success.
Instead, the Master was intent on re-casting the meaning of a whole bunch of words; ideas like “revolution”, “kingdom”, “peace”, “freedom”, “abundant life”, “success”, and “victory.”
Spring is coming here in Wake Forest
Maybe, in that singular moment there in the courtyard, Peter really wasn’t one of Christ’s disciples. Maybe he wasn’t following Jesus at all when the girl asked the question. Maybe Peter was thinking something else; something like, “What can I possibly do for a dead leader?” or “How can I follow someone who is not going exactly where I want to go?”
It’s quite plausible that Peter wasn’t afraid at all. But, instead, that he was disillusioned and confused. I’ve been there myself. I think we all have. And we already know the rest of the Easter story.
PRAYER: Purposeful God, please visit us with your spirit of assurance and encouragement. It is easy for us, still, to tragically misunderstand your message. Amen.
Wake Forest Presbyterian Church
Work-Day Photos: A good number of hardworking Presbyterians came by the campus Saturday morning to get their hands dirty on a number of projects. Here are a few fun photos – including this truly inspirational shot of Rick Mayo on the lift in the CLC, sporting what can only be described as a halo…
Beautiful!
God bless you! Inspirational!
Awesome. I think we can all use this kind of reminder about our ideas of “success” versus Christ’s. Loved it!