REFLECTION: 1 Peter 1:1-12 - A Living Hope
I was struck at Easter by the news coverage of the Easter church services.
Just about every interviewer and person interviewed identified hope as the
centre of the Easter Message. People said, “Easter gives me hope”. I
wonder, where do you find hope for your life?
Peter writes “to the exiles of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia,
Asia, and Bithynia.” They had been dispersed to these provinces shortly
after the death of Stephen. While they were glad to be alive, they missed
Jerusalem. They had been cut-off from God’s provision for his people, the
Holy Land of Israel. They lived instead as exiles as their forebears had done
in Egypt & in Babylon & Assyria.
They were starting to lose all hope. Peter reminds them of the living hope
we have in Jesus Christ and of our new citizenship.
Here is a summary of today’s message.
1. A living Hope:
a. By his great mercy he has given us a new birth into a living hope (2-3)
b. An inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in
heaven for you (4-5)
2. A costly Hope:
a. For a little while you have had to suffer various trials (6-7)
b. Even though you do not see him now, you believe in him (8-9)
3. A longed-for Hope:
a. The prophets searched intently trying to find out the time (10-11)
b. Things that have now been announced to you through those who brought
you good news by the Holy Spirit (12)
c. Things into which angels long to look! (12)
To Think About:
What difference does Jesus resurrection make to your outlook on life?
HYMNS FOR THIS SUNDAY
TIS 47 Our God our help in ages past
TIS491 Father welcomes all his children
MP59 Blessed assurance
TIS 224 All hail the power of Jesus name
FOR YOUR DIARIES
BCA Dinner at Glen Waverly Anglican, 5:30pm Sat 22nd April. We want to put
together a St James’ table group. Please indicate your interest on the sheet in the
foyer.
MEMORIAL FLOWERS
The flowers in church today have been given by Rene Wood and family in loving memory of her daughter Marcelle. Always remembered with much love.
SYNOD REPS
Nominations were called for the positions of Synod Representatives for the
coming 3 year cycle. Michael Willis and Marien DeBruyne nominated to be
representatives and Rusty Nicholls nominated as alternate. As there were the
only nominations, I declare them to be elected.
GROWTH GROUPS
Two study groups have been operating in our Parish over the last 3 years. Jane
Peters (0468696254) is leading one which meets via Zoom on Wednesday nights
at 7:15. Jonathan is leading the other group which meets in the fellowship room
on Wednesday nights at 7:30. Both groups are about to start new study programs
and both would welcome warmly new members. Jane’s group will be looking at
the Psalms and Jonathan’s group will be starting the course “Life Explored”.
BAPTISM
We welcome today through holy baptism three siblings: Ryder, Reed and Remi
Crowl. Congratulations to you and a warm welcome to all your family and
friends who are with us today.
VOICE TO PARLIAMENT SEMINAR
There will be a seminar at St James’ discussing the Voice to Parliament. Bishop Paul Barker will lead a conversation with Canon Glenn Loughrey. This will be held on Tuesday
2nd of May at 2pm.
YOUTH GROUP
The next youth group activity will be Sunday April 30 after church around
midday with a Mario Kart theme. Speak to Martin, Tats or Daniel for more
details.
ST JAMES’ MOTHER’S DAY HIGH TEA
Bring you mum your aunt, your grandmother, or just yourself along for a scrumptious high tea and entertainment on Saturday May 13th at
2pm. See Margo for more info.
FELLOWSHIP LUNCH IS BACK
Wednesday April 19th 12noon at Dandenong Club. Everyone welcome to
join us for good food and conversation. Please add your name to list in porch
or contact Doreen 0439795386.
READINGS FOR NEXT SUNDAY
23rd April–Third Sunday after Easter
Acts 2.14a, 36-41; Psalm 116.1-4,11-18 1 Peter 1.13-25; Luke 24.13-35
THIS WEEK WE CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR
Mike; Mark; Clovis; Rose; Eva; Cecil; Stanley; Nigel; Russell; Josie, Kevin; Joanne, Eve, Margaret, Lynette, Danny, Esme, Michael, Charles, Edward, Tyrone & Renee.
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