This week in worship, we will hear music, share prayers and receive the word as noted in the “Pentecost” story. The scripture is located in Acts, Chapter 2. I won’t go into too much of the passage now, but will say that it culminates with Peter preaching in the temple. I love this story because not only is it the culmination of the Pentecost story and the arrival of the Holy Spirit, it is also an outward expression of Peter’s forgiveness and call.

As you may recall from the Gospel, Jesus predicted that Peter would deny him. Sure enough, this happens. Remember the story? Betrayed by Judas, Jesus is arrested. Soon after, someone accuses Peter of being with Jesus. Peter denies this three times. Imagine the inner turmoil! Your friend has just been carried off by the authorities, the energy of the crowd that witnesses this is palpable, the crowd is looking to accuse others and save themselves, in response they are looking for anyone that can receive blame or guilt by association, all of this led to Peter’s denial. Later, Peter meets the resurrected Jesus. Jesus asks Peter (broken Peter, bumbling Peter, embarrassed Peter, betraying Peter), “Peter, do you love me?” Peter responds affirmatively. Jesus says, “Feed my sheep.” This happens two more times.

Three times Peter denied knowing Jesus. Three times Peter says he loves Jesus. Three times Jesus acknowledges this love by giving Peter a task to do. I’m guessing that if Jesus would have simply told Peter he was forgiven that Peter would have had a hard time believing it. Instead, Jesus reminds Peter that he is more loving than broken. To seal it all, again three times, Jesus gives Peter a task: Feed my sheep. Jesus shows that Peter is forgiven by trusting him with the work of carrying on Jesus’ ministry.

So, when Peter stands up to preach in this Pentecost story, that is the wisdom he is carrying. He is loved and loving. He is forgiven and freed. He is broken, but not destroyed. May we all believe the same for ourselves.