Drew Downs

Make a New Normal

Get behind me Satan

  • In the turning point in the gospel of Mark, Jesus is confronted with Peter’s ignorance and empire’s promise of safe oppression.

  • This week, we have the second half of a story many would prefer to never think are even connected in the least bit.

  • “Get behind me, Satan!” is one of the most shocking phrases in the gospels. It is also one of the most revealing.

  • For SundaySixteenth Sunday after Pentecost Collect O God, because without you we are not able to please you, mercifully grant that your Holy Spirit may in all things direct and rule our hearts; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.Amen. Reading…

  • The thing about Jesus’s rebuke of Peter is that we don’t see it coming. But we should. We’re often in Peter’s shoes.

  • There is such power in this rebuke that it shatters our focus on the moment. Like when a trusted authority uses a swear word.