Reflecting on John 13:31-38
“Will you really lay down your life for me?” (John 13:38)
In the past I've sung the song 'All to Jesus I surrender, I surrender all!'
I also sang 'Though none go with me, still I will follow!'
Even then I could hear Jesus whispering in my heart: 'Really???'
I've come to see my own faith more realistically.
Peter was often the first to proclaim his knowledge and faith.
Yet Jesus knows Peter, and sees through his words to his inner weakness.
Still, Jesus allows him to follow, just as he is (another song I sang).
It is not only 'just as I am' that I come to Jesus, it is how I follow too.
I used to be quick to speak for my faith; but Jesus has gently humbled me.
When we make bold declarations of our faith and certainty, Jesus knows our hearts.
If we listen for it, the Spirit of Jesus will ask us too: 'Really???'
Peter is a reminder to us that we need to be humbled, to see our faith honestly.
I know I would be too scared to die for my faith, and might even deny Jesus.
I struggle with many doubts and fears that hold me back, that show my weak faith.
Jesus knows this, and yet still invites me to follow Him 'just as I am!'
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, thank You for using Peter to show me that weak, struggling believers can follow You, and even deny You, and still be welcome. May we make room for weak, struggling believers, because they to can follow 'just as they are!'
