Fields United Methodist Church

Pastor Tom’s Weekly Blog.                    “The Son of the Living God”                      Matthew 16:13-19

March 17, 2020

“You are the Messiah, the Son of the Living God”

Matthew 16:16

As life changes direction a bit these days and with food supplies, medical necessities, and what to do next is on the forefront of many minds, where do we find comfort?  As the disciples were talking with people, what was clear in those conversations was uncertainty; who was this Jesus guy and what impact would he have on their lives? Many of the people when asked who Jesus was listed prophets of old. I would imagine answers also ran the gamut, maybe ranging from Rabbi, social worker, or just another crazy guy on the street. The unknown creates anxiety; the worldwide pandemic is testimony to that fact.  What will happen? Will life as we know it be forever changed? How long can I afford this outbreak financially if not psychologically? When Jesus heard the responses of the people, he turned to Simon Peter, one of the disciples, and asked, “you heard what the people thought of me and who I was, now Peter who do you say that I am?” Peter responded, “You are the Messiah, Son of the Living God.” What set Peter’s response apart was his absolute affirmation and profession of who Jesus was, the “Son of the Living God.”  During times of uncertainty we need a constant, and the one constant that will never falter or fail is the eternal love and presence of the Son of the Living God, Jesus the Christ. Are you seeking comfort in the midst of the storm? Do you find yourself worrying about what will happen next?  Are you just wondering? Focus on the One who “neither slumbers nor sleeps,” (Psalm 121) who promises to be with you “to the end of the age,” (Matthew 28:20) who “will renew your strength, [you]shall mount up with wings like eagles, [you] shall run and not grow weary, [you] shall walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31) Take this time to focus on the Word of God, take your profession of faith seriously. Our lives are constantly changing and especially now. Do what is necessary to help others and yourself be safe and healthy yet never forget the Lord your God is with you, to comfort you, encourage you, strengthen you, to offer you wisdom and the joy of knowing no matter the path your life takes and of those around you, our Lord is with you; you are never alone. Take this time of “social distancing” to deepen your relationship with God, “who has called you by name.” (Isaiah 43:1) Thank you Jesus

Rev. Tom Joyce, pastor

Fields United Methodist Church

Scripture to reflect upon this week:

Matthew 16:13-19 “You are the Messiah, Son of the Living God”

Psalm 121 “I lift my eyes to the hills, from where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth”

Matthew 28:20 “And remember I am with you always, even to the end of the age”

Isaiah 43 “But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel; do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.”

I John 3:1-3 “See what love the Father has given us that we should be called children of God; and that is what we are…”