Welcome to St. Nicholas on Sunday 13th August (Trinity 10)
The Gospel reading for this Sunday is Matt. 14:22-33
Peter’s attempt to walk on water in this week’s Gospel follows on immediately from the feeding of the five thousand. Jesus has dismissed the crowds and sent his disciples on ahead of him, across the lake, while he goes up a mountain to pray alone. Early in the morning the disciples see Jesus walking towards them through the battering waves, and they cry out in fear, imagining they are seeing a ghost. He calls out to reassure them , and Peter responds, “Lord , if it is you,command me to come to you on the water.” When Jesus does this, Peter sets out confidently, but he is soon overcome by his fear of the wind and the waves. Jesus catches hold of Peter’s outstretched hand, reprimanding him for his lack of faith. As they get in the boat the wind drops, and the disciples worship Jesus.Peter’s need to be rescued teaches him a crucial lesson in trust.
This message explores the push-pull factor of fear versus love, as we hear Jesus call his disciples – and us – to leave our comfort zones and grow in faith. We hear the voice more clearly when we slow down, quieten chattering minds to pay attention to Jesus. Venturing out can bring us into stormy times.(copyright@Roots)
Our service on Sunday morning begins at 10.30 am. We look forward to welcoming Rev Augustine Ihm from St.James and Emmanuel to preside. Our organist and MD, Ollie Mills will accompany the hymns and lead the singing. Here are details of the readings and hymns for the service: