Stinging words

Reflecting on this week's gospel: Mark 8 v 27-38

Oh, Jesus,

you didn't mince your words with Peter

Peter, who had just proclaimed you Lord

and then you denounce him as Satan

Don't you think that was a bit harsh?

Just a tad sharp?

I mean his heart was in the right place

he's a well meaning sort of a fellow.

But that's just the trouble, isn't it -

too many well meaning folk

who are really just obstructing the kingdom

Hearts in the right place

but stifling life and growth.

Focussing on trivia

and losing sight of the essentials

Perhaps we too need to be harsh

Weed out those who would choke the gospel

just so things can stay as they are -

familiar, comfortable,

DEAD.

Lord, give us courage to speak out

not to wound but to confront.

Make us brave enough not to be nice

for the sake of peace

but to challenge

for the sake of the kingdom.

And as we do that may the Peters in our midst

know themselves loved

as Peter knew your love

even as he was challenged.