Simon, Simon, listen! Satan has
demanded to sift all of you like wheat, but I have prayed
for you that your own faith may not fail; and you, when once you have turned
back, strengthen your brothers.” And he said to him, “Lord, I am ready
to go with you to prison and to death!” Jesus
said, “I tell you, Peter, the cock will not crow this
day, until you have denied three times that you know me.”
(Luke
22:31-34)
This story is told again and again in our
passion recollections. Peter is
proclaiming his undying allegiance to Jesus, while Jesus forecasts a completely
different outcome. Our own best
intentions for commitment and faithfulness to Jesus are heard in Peter’s bold
words. Our focal point, however, should
not be on Peter’s words or his failure, but on the words of Jesus found in verse
32… but I have prayed for you that your
own faith may not fail; and you, when once you have turned back, strengthen your
brothers.” Peter’s failure was
assured, but so too was Jesus’ faithfulness in praying for him and believing the
best about him. We focus on the
failure…Jesus sees the possibility.
Maundy Thursday calls us to the table, the
garden, the betrayal, the trial, and then, the cross. The failures of Peter and the disciples are
significant for us because we see ourselves there. The words and actions of Jesus, however, are
much more significant for they speak of redemption for Peter, and for you and
me.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, you hear our bold
proclamations as well as our anxious denials, yet, you believe in us still. In your grace and mercy, may we, like Peter,
find restoration.
Amen.
Jim
Abernathy
Plan to join us for Maundy Thursday services
at 7:30 p.m. in the sanctuary.
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