Luke 22:56
Here is a snippet from the Passion narrative that is rarely mentioned. Most of the attention goes to Peter’s response, his three separate and significant denials of Jesus. Peter had hunkered down in front of the fire kindled in the High Priest’s courtyard. He had followed the mob from the Mount of Olives where his spontaneous use of a sword had raised Jesus’ ire.
God only knows what Peter was thinking about as he hunched over and bowed his head hoping that the warmth of the fire could reheat the ice that was building in his veins.
It took courage to be there, for sure. To be implicated with Jesus the ‘insurrectionist (or in modern parlance, terrorist), might direct him on his own pathway towards crucifixion. But what are the limits of courage? How far could he go to stand up for his faith in the Arrested One?
According to the Scriptures, at that point in his faith journey, not very far.
All that it took was for a servant girl and some nameless figures to exclaim into the night with malevolent, public-shaming glee: “This man! This man was with HIM!” We can almost imagine that she pointed at Peter with one finger and Jesus, who is with the High Priest, with another. As she connected the dots, she brought about a desperate decision for Peter, one that we also face as Christians:
Do we deny ourselves, take up our crosses and follow Jesus?
Or do we save face and deny him so that we can live?
It’s a torturous choice, but it has ramifications for not just Peter and Jesus, but those who are watching. If the followers of Jesus do not claim him, how and why would anyone else?
The question for us in the 21st century is this: How far are we willing to go to associate with the crucified one? What is the point of no return? Is it a loss of position, respect, authority or even reputation? Or is it much cheaper than that? Is it loss of happiness?
Join with us as we investigate the servant girls’ accusation this Sunday.
Pr Reid Matthias
Bible Reading: Luke 22:54-62
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au
Prayer Request
Prayer requests are not included in the weekly news. If you would like to view the current requests refer to the email that alerted you to this weekly news. If you have a prayer request please email churchenquiries@paravista.org.au with your request.
Praise Point
At this Sunday’s 10.30am service the following children will be welcomed into God’s family through holy baptism - Alexia Lily, daughter of Benjamin and Jacqueline Morton and Mia and Kane children of Len and Carol Baker.
I’m excited
Our Mission Vision Support Plan (MVSP) has been launched providing opportunities for you to invest directly into different ministries here at the Good Shepherd community.
I’m excited
That each month we get to spend the entire month focused on a ministry based here like Transform, Meet N Greet or Visual Arts. During the allocated month, the ministry team will have opportunities to share stories of how their ministry has impacted the community and individuals, share stories of celebration and to share their dreams for the ministry so that as a congregation we can understand more about what they do in our community.
I’m excited
As many of you are passionate about different areas of ministries here at Good Shepherd; Therefore this is an opportunity to invest directly into the areas of ministry you are passionate about.
I’m excited
This month, March we are focusing on ministries for children, families, youth, young adults, and intergenerational mission. Last week you heard Zac share his story and vision for Transform Youth, Listen out for more stories on Playgroup, Young Adults, Camping Ministry, Parents all focused on Intergenerational ministry.
Go and seek
A clearly marked envelope available from our Worship Hosts or the host desks for your gift. This will mean that your donation will go straight to the ministry intended. Your gift may include time you can allocate to this ministry. Envelopes can be either placed on the collection plate, placed in the bowls on the way out of handed into the office during office hours.
Be a part of
Donating via direct debit using the following information:
BSB 704942
Acct# 129523 (add S1 for internal LLL transfers)
Acct Name Para Vista Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Operating
Please ensure the reference includes the ministry area. Donations without clear reference will be classed as general income. Remember this is not intended to substitute from your normal offering but is allowing you to grow your ministry area of choice and not detract from the great things already happening within our community.
I’m excited, Look out for
The Posters that will indicate what Ministries need support and how you have helped.
From the Office
Notice Board
Para Vista Lutheran Cricket Club
40th Anniversary
Reserve is next to Yatala Prison and behind the “Grand North” on Grand Junction Road.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.’’
Proverbs 3:5-6
