Peter’s Denial

Scripture: 66 Meanwhile, Peter was sitting below in the courtyard when a girl, a servant of the high priest, came near the fire. 67 When she saw Peter there warming himself, she said to him, “I recognize you. You were with that Nazarene, Jesus.” 68 But Peter denied it, saying, “I don’t have a clue what you’re talking about.” Then he went out to the gateway of the courtyard and the rooster crowed. 69 When the servant girl noticed him, she said to all the bystanders, “I know this man is one of his followers!” 70 Once again, Peter denied it. A short time later, the bystanders said to him, “You must be one of them. You’re a Galilean, like he is, for your accent proves it!” 71 Peter cursed and said, “I tell you, I don’t know this man you’re talking about!” 72 At the moment Peter spoke those words, the sound of a rooster crowing pierced the night for a second time. And Peter remembered the words Jesus had spoken to him earlier; “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” With a shattered heart, Peter broke down and sobbed with bitter tears. (Mark 14:66-72 The Passion) What an amazing, but sad few hours! So many things happened; from the lady with the alabaster flask and precious oil, to Judas’ plan to betray Jesus, to Passover and communion, to Jesus prophesying Peter’s denial, to the time in the garden with the disciples sleeping, to Jesus’ arrest and condemnation by the religious leaders, and finally Peter’s denial. So much in those few hours! I, myself, cannot say anything against Peter at this time. I am not sure that I would not have been tempted to do the same thing that he did in denying Jesus. The sadness and regret Peter must have felt! But Jesus forgave him once again. Lord, when I consider all that happened here and the denial by Peter, I feel sad and wonder once again what I would have done. Thank You for Your forgiveness that was there for Peter, and the assurance of Your forgiveness that You will have for me when I stumble in my walk with You. AMEN Father, I will sing my song to You as long as I live! May You be pleased with every sweet thought I have about You, for You are the source of my joy and gladness. Psalm 104
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