THE STORY OF JESUS: John 18:25-27
“Again Peter denied it, and at that moment a rooster began to crow.” (John 18:27)
Included in this story about Jesus is this moment of Peter’s failure.
If one so close to Jesus can buckle under pressure, I am encouraged.
Though I’ve never denied Jesus like this, I’ve never been threatened either.
For Peter, the rooster crow would have been the haunting sound of failure.
Every morning when the rooster crowed, he was reminded how he denied Jesus.
“His compassions never fail, they are new every morning!” (Lamentations 3:22-23)
Until that morning when Peter hears from the women… Jesus is alive!
And then that morning, when Peter meets Jesus, and is forgiven (John 21:15-19).
When the rooster crows for you, do you awake in hope or despair?
Are you only aware of your failure, or do you feel God’s mercy?
Do you awake alone, or do you awake with Jesus, and with His assurance.
Keep your eyes on Jesus, and keep listening for the sound of His grace.
Focus on the horizon, and not on darkness, and wait for the crow of mercy!
“Until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts!” (2 Peter 1:19)
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, I know that I have failed, many times and many ways. Thank You that I can wake up every morning to the sound of Your mercy.
Impulsive Peter.
Standing up for Jesus. Even taking action and cutting off the ear.
Following Jesus when He was taken captive.
Courage and yet . . .
when confronted, denied His Master.
But in His despair he turned to His Master.
I must do the same – turn my heart to Jesus at all times knowing I am in His presence at all times and as Peter was reminded of His Saviour by the rooster’s crowing I am reminded each day anew of His presence when my feet touch the floor for a new day dawning in Him. This day belongs to Him as I meet the challenges of the day.
In doubt and temptation I rest, Lord, in Thee;
My hand is in Thy hand, Thou carest for me;
My soul with Thy counsel through life Thou wilt guide,
And afterward make me in glory abide.
Refrain
My God, I will extol Thee
And ever bless Thy Name;
Each day will I give thanks to Thee
And all Thy praise proclaim.
In glory Thou only my portion shall be,
On earth for none other I long for but Thee;
My flesh and heart falter, but God is my stay,
The strength of my spirit, my portion for aye.
Refrain
All they that forsake Thee must perish and die,
But near to my Savior most blessèd am I;
I make Thee my refuge, my Lord and my God;
Thy grace and Thy glory I publish abroad.
Refrain