Date Posted: 2025-04-18 13:35:50 | Video Duration: 01:01:27
At Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church, the atmosphere was filled with a profound sense of community and reflection during the Monday Thursday service. This special evening was dedicated to recalling the story of Jesus’ last supper with his disciples, a poignant reminder of service, sacrifice, and love. The sermon delved into the nuanced relationship between Jesus and his disciples, particularly focusing on Peter’s journey of understanding and humility.
The evening began with a reminder of the importance of community. The congregation was invited to share in the service by signing friendship pads, symbolizing the unity and belonging that Preston Hollow embodies. Upcoming events were announced, including creative family services and traditional Tenebrae services, all leading up to Easter celebrations.
The Humility of Jesus
The core of the sermon focused on John 13, where Jesus, aware of his impending betrayal, chose to wash the feet of his disciples. This act of humility and service set the tone for the evening’s message. The speaker reflected on Peter’s initial resistance to Jesus washing his feet, a moment that highlighted Peter’s struggle with understanding the depth of Jesus’ love and servitude.
“You do not know what I am doing, but later you will understand,” Jesus told Peter. This statement encapsulates the essence of faith — trusting in actions and intentions that may not be immediately clear. Peter’s insistence, “You will never wash my feet,” followed by his immediate reversal to “Not just my feet but also my hands and my head,” illustrated the human tendency to oscillate between extremes when faced with vulnerability and grace.
A Lesson in Acceptance and Grace
The sermon explored the theme of acceptance, emphasizing that Jesus’ love does not discriminate. He washed the feet of all his disciples, including those who would betray and deny him. This act was a powerful symbol of unconditional love and forgiveness, inviting the congregation to reflect on their own lives and relationships.
Peter’s story served as a reminder that we are neither wholly pure nor wholly impure. We are complex beings, loved completely by God despite our shortcomings. The speaker shared a personal anecdote about recognizing moments of discomfort and the opportunity for growth they present. “When someone invites us to repentance, it’s a chance for cleansing,” they said, encouraging the congregation to embrace these moments as opportunities for deeper understanding and connection.
The Invitation to the Table
The sermon culminated in the celebration of communion, where the congregation gathered in small groups around tables, reminiscent of Jesus’ last supper. This act of breaking bread together was a tangible expression of unity and shared faith. The speaker reminded everyone of Jesus’ words, “This is my body broken for you; do this in remembrance of me,” highlighting the inclusivity of God’s love.
The sermon closed with a call to action, urging the congregation to carry the lessons of humility, acceptance, and service into their daily lives. The congregation was encouraged to stay open to moments of discomfort and growth, to listen with empathy, and to serve others with the same love and grace that Jesus demonstrated.
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