Everyone likes a little personal attention. It's not that we're that selfish, self-centered, peculiar or particular (or maybe we are), but we all like a little personal attention every now and then.
That's why we patronize businesses that cater to their customers and their needs - that little personal attention that keeps you coming back for more: the sales associate who is understanding; the service station attendant who is patient; the clerk who answers all of your questions no matter how many times you ask them and get the same answer; and the manager who remembers you and what you purchased the last time.
Businesses have grown all because they knew the value of customer service. Other businesses have failed because they did not pay some personal attention to their customer base.
We like to belong to groups where there is some personal attention. We like to go to churches where people give you some personal attention, people are glad to see you come, and they miss you when you're gone. We love churches where someone may remember it's your birthday, or where you want to share your latest excitement because you know they will be glad for you. We love churches where the usher remembers where you sat the last time you were in church, and where the officer who remembers your name.
We love churches where someone may remember that your spouse is still in the hospital or that your family member is in town; the baby has finally graduated or that things are getting better where you live. We love a church home where there maybe a hug or a handshake- all of us like a little extra personal attention. Even if you're in a place where no one can remember your name, at least they will smile at you and make you feel at home.
In 16th chapter of Mark's gospel, the women came to the tomb early. There they pressed their way to complete the embalming process without knowing if the stone was rolled away or if the soldiers would give them a hard time. When they arrived, they found out God had already taken care of both problems. They had an angel experience. Jesus is not dead. He said, "Go and tell my disciples, and Peter."
Now here is the personal attention, and Peter. What about the other disciples? Why not ask about John or Luke, Andrew or Nathaniel. Why give such attention to Peter?
The mention of Peter is unique to Mark. The other gospels do not specifically mention his name. Now we must ask the question why?
Remember that Peter denied Jesus three times after pledging his faith. He was prepared to defend Jesus in the garden, but denied him before the cock's morning crow. Peter denied Jesus not once but three times.
Here is an indication that Peter's mistake was not final. He messed up, but he could finish well.
Peter was the leader who led the followers of Jesus into hiding. He made strategic mistakes, displayed poor judgment and exhibited improper behavior. Have you ever done that or been here?
Yet by calling his name at the tomb, was Jesus letting Peter know that his mistakes did not cost him his leadership position or his relationship with the Savior? Was this an indication that his mistakes were not final?
David made a mistake with Bathsheba and continued to be king of Israel. He finished well. The woman at the well made mistakes in serial monogamous relationships. She finished well. Saul persecuted the church, but after his Damascus Road experiences, as Paul, he finished well. Thank God for a Personal touch so we too can finish well!!
All of our sins were nailed to the cross and buried in a tomb. If we confess, God is faithful to forgive. All humanity was released from the bondage of sin so we could finish well.
Our mistakes are not final. (This is where you begin to praise God throughout the day!)
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