May 11 Virtual Worship
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Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty
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Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
Scripture Lesson
Sunday, May 11, 2025
Scripture Reading: John 21:15-19
Sermon: New Life, Rooted in Love
John 21:15-19
When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my lambs.” A second time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Tend my sheep.” He said to him the third time, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter felt hurt because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” And he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. Very truly, I tell you, when you were younger, you used to fasten your own belt and to go wherever you wished. But when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will fasten a belt around you and take you where you do not wish to go.” After this he said to him, “Follow me.”
Key Idea of the Sermon
The third appearance of the Risen One to his disciples took place on the shore of the Sea of Galilee (a few days walk north of Jerusalem). In familiar territory and in a quiet and lovely place, Jesus prepared and shared a breakfast with his followers. After the meal, Jesus attends to an important matter. During Jesus interrogation and prior to his execution, Peter had denied that he even knew Jesus (John 18:15-18). This sin of disloyalty needed to be addressed so that Peter could restore his relationship with Jesus and recommit himself to discipleship. Jesus gives Peter three opportunities to profess his love for Jesus and renew his discipleship as a servant-leader who would “tend the sheep” of Jesus’ fold. Peter seizes this opportunity of restoration and renewal even though the demands of discipleship are costly.
Questions for Reflection
• How have you denied your loyalty to Jesus? What opportunities have you missed to share the love of Christ?
• Are you carrying the burden of guilt and feelings of unworthiness?
• Do you love Jesus? Do you open your heart to his grace and mercy? Will you forgive yourself and accept a fresh start?
A Spiritual Practice to Try
Make the ancient, simple, and profound prayer of repentance your mantra this week: Lord have mercy upon me. Christ have mercy upon me. Lord have mercy upon me.
If you need some guidance or support, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com
