3rd Sunday of Easter
Hazelwell Morning Worship
Led by Val Harris, Preacher Andy Harris
- Andy as he prepares to preach this Sunday.
- Annual Church Meeting – Following the service Sunday 11th May a chance to find out about and discuss plans for Hazelwell Church followed by a light (sandwich) lunch.
- Christian Aid Meal (Salads and choice of desserts) Sunday 1st June
- Tickets on sale from 11th May
- Summer Fair Saturday 7th June 10.00am – 1.30pm
- (set up Friday 6th). After our spring-clean we will be starting to collect -from scratch - items for sale, including bric-a-brac, books, toys also “star prize” bottles and (on the day) cakes. So if you’ve not yet done your spring clean, or need to declutter please bring donations to church. (They can be stored behind the green screens)
- Reflection on John 21:1–19
- This passage recounts the third appearance of the resurrected Jesus to His disciples, focusing on His interaction with Peter by the Sea of Galilee.
- uncertain and perhaps discouraged after the crucifixion, the disciples, return to fishing. Jesus meets them there — not in the temple or a holy place, but in their daily work. Similarly Christ often encounters us in the midst of our ordinary routines and failures, offering new purpose.
- When the disciples obey Jesus’ instruction to cast the net on the right side, they catch an overwhelming number of fish. (Echoing the miraculous catch described in Luke 5 ) we are reminded of the abundance of God’s provision for us and the fruitfulness of life and ministry spent in obedience to Christ.
- Peter, who had denied Jesus three times, is given a chance to affirm his love three times. Jesus doesn’t shame him but gently leads him through restoration. Each time Peter says “Yes, Lord, you know I love you,” Jesus responds with a commission: “Feed my lambs,” “Take care of my sheep,” “Feed my sheep.” It’s a beautiful image of forgiveness and entrusting Peter with leadership, not despite his failure, but through it.
- Jesus doesn’t ask Peter about his skills or knowledge — only about his love. True Christian leadership and discipleship are rooted in love for Christ, which overflows into service to others.
- Jesus ends by telling Peter what kind of death he will suffer, and then simply says, “Follow me.” This call is not glamorous or easy. It’s a call to surrender and faithful obedience, wherever it may lead. But it also points to the deep personal relationship Jesus offers — one of trust, presence, and purpose.