PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Mark 14:27-31
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“Peter declared, ‘Even if all fall away, I will not.’” (Mark 14:27-31)
There have been times when I spoke with the same boldness as Peter.
Often when preaching I will insist emphatically that I will hang on to Jesus.
On my good days, I say this with sincerity and really want it to be true.
On my weaker days, I say it to convince or strengthen my resolve.
But like Peter I have also buckled under pressure, and let go of my hope.
I do not hear Jesus shaming Peter with his weakness, but it is a helpful caution.
Jesus assures Peter that he loves him, in times of weakness and strength.
“You will fall away” (Mark 14:27) Jesus says to me too.
“After I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee.” (Mark 14:28)
Jesus knows I will have days when I stumble and fall.
Jesus knows that I have both times of strength and times of weakness.
He knows me, and yet he still loves me, and will be there for me in the end.
He goes ahead of me to meet me when I finally there; he will be waiting for me.
I am encouraged by the grace of Jesus, my shepherd even when I am scattered.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, my weakness does not surprise you, and you are still there for me even when I let you down. May your resurrection grace and strength lift me up when I am falling down.
“Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the others said the same.” I can’t say I’ve ever disowned Jesus but more often its been that I’ve stayed quiet when I should have spoke up – or at least I thought I should. How is it best to represent Jesus – to share the Gospel – there is so much negative stuff out there about Christianity – and sometimes I see people witnessing for Jesus – but it’s o out of touch. But same time – it’s true what Paul says: 1Colossians 1: 18 – “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us it is the power of God” How do I share the gospel without the cross? It eventually has to come up. I pray for the right context so that I can share – I am not ashamed of the cross – I can I share it effectively and not be quiet about it?