23 But he turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a hindrance to me, for you are setting your mind not on divine things but on human things.
Matthew 16:23 NRSVUE
The above verse comes from a story in which Peter, in a flash of fear, tries to stop Jesus from going to Jerusalem and heading toward the cross. It is a human moment in which Peter simply did not want his beloved teacher and friend to suffer and their time together to end. It is something we all can relate to. Yet, Jesus knew, however difficult it was, that he could not deviate from his calling.
It was a hard lesson for Peter, and it is a hard lesson for the church. From death comes new life. This story asks many important and deep and difficult questions.
What “human things” must we let go of for new life to flourish?
What things in our lives are stumbling blocks to offering and receiving a loving openness?
We could spend a lot of time reflecting on just these two. This Sunday we’ll continue the conversation as we learn together how best to follow Jesus in our time and place.
Peace be with you.
Pastor Karsten
