Sunday will mark two things I am doing for the first time here at Koonung Heights. First, All Age worship; so come along expecting it will be a bit different. And goodness me I am looking forward to seeing you all in your nightwear! That is because, (and secondly), it is Pyjama Day. A day that Melbourne City Mission sponsors to raise awareness of those who unlike probably all of us who have a nice comfy and warm home to sleep in, do not have access to that level of comfort.

We are linking this theme with the reading for the day which is a continuation of last week’s reading from Matthew 16 where Simon, soon to be Peter, declares Jesus to the Messiah and Son of God. Jesus in response declares Simon to be Peter – that is Rock – a strong and sure foundation to build the Church on. But dramatically this week Peter stumbles when he tries to shield Jesus from necessary suffering – from going the way of lowly suffering when called upon. Jesus rebukes Peter, declaring him to be “Satan” (not so much devilish as Adversary/Opponent) and saying he has become a potential Stumbling Block.

How the peaks of faith can come crashing down so quickly. How bizarre that the same person can be a rock and stumbling block within such a short time. Which one are you feeling more like today?

All the best, Ray