Praying Together 30th August 2026

Today’s Gospel reading follows the developing story of Jesus’ ministry and teaching. Immediately before this Jesus has asked the disciples the question “Who do they say that I am?” – followed by another question to Peter “…and who do you say that I am?”

Peter answers – “You are the Christ, the son of the living God”.

Then the future plan begins to unfold as Jesus declares – “you are Peter, the rock, and upon you I will build my church”. Turning to the others he warns them to tell no one that is the Christ.

Just as the seasons change….there’s a clear change taking place here.

All good things turn to an end – seemingly?

Jesus has given Peter the shock of his life. Perhaps he was hearing things – how could his leader, teacher and closest friend possibly contemplate the journey into Jerusalem. Immediately Peter challenges him not to make that journey – it would end in tears. But Peter is in for an even bigger shock when Jesus rebukes him – “get away from me Satan – get behind me. This has to be done. You’re fixing your mind on things of this world and not on God’s Kingdom”.

Peter isn’t alone in his response – we all fall into that trap – albeit unintentionally. When we’re facing something that seems bigger than us – things we have no idea how to deal with – a sudden shock or change in our ‘ordered’ lives. When we feel out of control.

Let’s try to imagine how Jesus felt – or how Peter dealt with the shock-response following that unexpected and angry rebuke. The mixed emotions of the rest of that group of friends and followers.

Life’s like that from time to time for each one of us. Fear steals in; our faith is shaken. Yet not one of us has had to deal with what lay ahead for our Saviour. He too was human – tempted to take an easier route perhaps…

Yet, obedient to his Father he turned his face to Jerusalem. We need no reminder of the events that took place from this moment. A tragic story of humiliation, torture and death alongside a bunch of criminals. An innocent man who never told a lie went willingly to that cruel cross – willingly.

We know the joy of that Easter morning too – and the joy that filled the hearts of Jesus’ friends and followers as they began to understand the promises he had made.

That joy is ours – there for ever until we see him face-to-face.

BUT – just like those early disciples and apostles there’s an important work to continue. You and I are part of that bunch of followers – ordinary people – let’s keep that in mind – as we reach out to others, each and every day of our lives.