Friday, February 27, 2009

John

Feeling shame and guilt, he stood watching at the edge of the crowd. John had been one of Jesus' inner circle of followers. Jesus relied on those three, Peter, James and himself, more than the others.

And I let Him down. I ran when I should hve been there for Him. Maybe I shouldn't have come. But I felt drawn, like I am supposed to be here.
What about His mother? What will Mary do? Where will she live? How will she live?
What's that, did He look at me? Did He call my name? Oh, yes, I will care for your mother.
Thank You for forgiving me. Thank You for honoring me by allowing me this honor.

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Peter


(John 21:15-17)

A typical Galilean—impulsive, fervent, quick-tempered, adventuresome—the phrase that best describes Peter. Qualities we don't think of as needed for one of Jesus' disciples. Peter also possessed some very admirable traits as well. He was insightful, thought deeply and possessed great loyalty.

It was Peter who first recognized Christ's deity. He didn't hesitate when asked who he thought Jesus was. He asked the Master about the forgiveness issues,inquiring “How many times?”

When he blurted out the words on his mind when he saw Jesus and Moses and Elijah on the mountaintop, he did as many of us would have done. He spoke out of emotion—without thinking.

When Jesus was arrested and stood trial, we can surmise Peter, as were all the others, was afraid. Might his denial of knowing Christ—of being one of His followers—stem from the fear and emotion he felt? Could he have thought that he would also die?

God Alone

  Jesus and the children at our church's prayer walk.          I will both lie down in peace and sleep;  For You alone, O LORD make ...