Monday I had the privilege of spending half a day with Jubilee Brass, the western-Ontario group of bandsmen who are now seniors – many who are retired. It was good to see so many people that I know and some who I know well. My friend Ron Pearson was there – a friend from Scarborough days. I had the invitation to do this with the band just prior to the pandemic and we manage to get this in for June.

I used Peter and 1 Peter in particular as my teaching basis. Peter is an interesting man – bold, confident, and of course at times filled with regret. I am sure he was sure that he would be loyal, would not desert Jesus, and if needed to give his life for his faith. And yet at the time of testing, he was unable to match his will with his passion. Of course, would we be different?

I mentioned to the folks on Monday morning that we have a common experience that is not so common to most of humankind. We have lived in peace and prosperity during our lifetime so the chance that we are going to be challenged to give our life for our faith is low. However, it may not always be like this.

Peter’s growth in emotional and spiritual maturity is well demonstrated in 1 Peter. Alister Begg suggests that 1 Peter is a full discipleship program, and it is easy to agree with that as you read.

The story of Peter reminds us that even though we might fail ourselves and the Lord, He comes to call us back, to offer us restoration and mending.

1 Peter 5:10 says “In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation.”

Now the word restore in Greek is “katartizō” and is also used to describe James and John as they mended their nets. They “katartizo-ed” the nets.

The whole exchange of Peter and Jesus in John 21 is the mending of Peter – and his relationship with Jesus. And who among us does not need some mending from time to time? We are wounded by life and by our choices. Jesus offers to come and restore us – and then to support and strengthen us!

The grouup gave me the most lovely gift of two books. I will really enjoy reading these!