Posted by PS on August 04, 2003 at 14:24:03:
In Reply to: Peter posted by giveawayboy on August 03, 2003 at 23:48:35:
: I just wanted to say that I was very moved by our talk today about Peter. I like the way we are going through Mark's gospel and just trying to read what is there. Not adding or taking away from the text itself. I mean, it's great that we can be illuminated by other sciences and historical information but in reading the words themselves, and paying attention to them there is so much we can appreciate without putting our own spins on it. I just want to say that the primary feeling I got from Steve talking today was this, it was one of deep appreciation for Peter's unique ministry in the church, and one of profound love for Peter as a person. Peter's life had a characteristic mark to it. Christ was hidden in him. When we see Peter we see CHRIST IN HIM. This is what makes Peter great. When we see his life, we see Christ so perfectly expressed, even through Peter's frailties. The very things that were his weaknesses were God's strengths. I just want to thank Steve for staying as true as he could to the text which we have received. There are not many churches you can go to which will give the scriptures that much respect. I feel more connected to Peter, the man, now than ever. Just like I feel more connected to Jesus, the man, now than ever. This study in Mark has been one of the most powerful spiritual benchmarks of my life. I am happy to be able to return to the text of the bible without all the 'spins' that people place on it. The neat thing about Peter, or Mary or Paul or anyone else, is that when you see them, you see their entire life in the context of Christ. Their greatness is revealed as they dovetail into Christ and as he permeates their lives. I think this is significant since although we see them as unique characters in themselves, it's all by, in and through christ and it is HIM IN THEM that we are beholding. it is all his presence in us.
: Amen!
Thank you for sharing these things. I gladly exchange all the theological spins and so-called "spiritual" insight for a real and tangible encounter with the man Jesus and the real people whose lives were forever changed by him. The simple, common-sense approach has cultivated my love for Jesus as never before. And like you, I also feel much closer to Peter and the others who share this love of the Galilean. Jesus has been exalted to a place in my life to which lofty theologies never could--because he is more real and relevant. God's amazing love is best protrayed in the humanity he embraced.
Thanks for your encouragement also--all of you. It has sometimes been discouraging lately, and the comments I have been hearing from you all really make a huge difference. :-)