Praying Together 17th May 2026

If St Peter had auditioned for the wonderful Musical Drama ‘West Side Story’, there is one role in which would fit him best – that of Tony, whose anticipation of ‘Something Coming’ mirrors Shakespeare’s Romeo in his dreams – and that of Peter himself, as he has heard Jesus mystifyingly talking about His departure and an ‘Advocate’ who will be sent by God. Peter trusts that Jesus’ promise to be with Him always will be fulfilled – but he can’t understand how, when or where.

He won’t have long to wait – He will watch Jesus ascend from the hill called Olivet, and has already shown leadership to the other disciples (Acts 1:15). But he can’t have expected the deafening wind and flames of fire that will give him the strength and power that he will need in his apostolic ministry. (of which more next week).

I suspect many of us have had the experience of knowing that ‘Something is coming’ without knowing exactly what it is – a feeling of expectation, but perhaps slightly fearful of what significant change might ensue. In Peter’s first letter, the author reflects on his calling to be the rock on which Christ’s Church is built and his gradual preparation for the task – involving repentance, forgiveness, mistakes and misunderstanding. From his own experience, he describes the ‘normal’ Christan life, with its ‘normal’ ups and downs – leading to the day when the ‘Something’ will be recognised as God’s Holy Spirit, our strength, encourager and guide to sustain us through the difficult times of worry, suffering and temptation to which Christ’s followers are all subject.

Peter’s story has parallels in each of our lives. When we accepted The Lord’s call, we became aware of what it involves, perhaps including difficulties and sadnesses as well as joy. But we are also promised the gift of power to be witnesses to Jesus loving salvation through all of the changing times of our lives. Our future awaits the Day of Pentecost, and as the song says,

‘Somethin’s comin’, don’t know what it is, but it is gonna be great’