Tragedy and Restoration

Then Andrew brought Simon to meet Jesus. Looking intently at Simon, Jesus said, "You are Simon, the son of John -- but you will be called Cephas" (which means Peter) ( John 1: 42, NLT).

Thousands of people in China remain in shelters since their homes were demolished in an earthquake three weeks ago. The reported loss of life is staggering. The nation typically celebrates Children's Day on June 1; however, several reports described the suffering and grief that has infiltrated the lives of the people through the death of their children. The estimated loss of 9,000 students and teachers underscores the depth of the tragedy.

How can the people move forward after such enormous loss?

One thing I do know is that living with loss is always a process and never an overnight experience. That said, John described the process in a succinct sentence when Jesus tells Simon that he will be called Cephas, which means Peter. The name change describes the power of restoration through a relationship with Christ. “Cephas” is Aramaic and “Peter” Greek for “rock.” The book of Matthew gives more insight to what the name will mean in the history of humanity:
Now I say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it. (Matthew 16:8, NLT)
The story of Peter is fascinating. The gospel writers depict Peter's passion for Christ and the grief that ensues when he denies knowing Christ before the crucifixion. And, yet through a conversation with Christ after the resurrection, Peter accepts restoration and moves forward. The first twelve chapters of Acts almost exclusively describe the activity of Peter building the early church.

The process of Simon the fisherman becoming Peter the church builder can only have been attained and achieved through Christ. The presence and power of Christ abiding within an individual is not only restorative but life-changing.

Restoration is a daily process.
The power of hurt and pain can dictate the way we live unless we consciously allow the power of Christ to overrule the pain.
Seek Christ.
Admit the need for restoration.
Accept restoration.
Act through the restorative power of Christ rather than through hurt or pain.

Learning with you to engage with the restorative power of Christ on a daily basis,
Shalom,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2008 All Rights Reserved)