You are probably familiar with the account of Peter’s denial of Jesus. It was such a low point in Peter’s life that the Bible says he went off and wept bitterly. He had been at Jesus’ side for 3 years … heard his teachings, witnessed the miracles, felt his love. Peter had even said that he would be willing to die for Jesus, and now look at him. How those words must have been ringing in his ears at that moment.
For me, it isn’t hard at all to relate to Peter. The pressures of the world to conform and fit in are tremendous. We like to think our convictions and our faith will prevail when we are tempted, but it is not always the case.
So, what should we do when we give in to temptation and sin … and not just any sin, but the one we said we would never do?
First, we need to know that even though sin may win the day, it doesn’t rule our lives. We are not a slave to it, Jesus’ victory on the cross is our victory too.
Second we need to confess it and repent immediately. Agree with God that sin is sin, make no excuses and be forgiven.
Which leads me to my last point. After the denial, we don’t hear anything else about Peter until the women who had gone to the tomb came back with the message that the tomb was empty. And then the race was on. Peter couldn’t get there fast enough.
I’ve often wondered why Peter wasn’t just a little hesitant to run to Jesus. Afterall, he had just denied knowing him just days earlier. But then I read something that explained it. It was the message that Mary and Martha delivered to the disciples from the empty tomb. And angel told them to go and tell the disciples that He is risen! And here are the angels exact words to the women, “But go, tell Jesus’ disciples and Peter, “He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see Him …”
I’m kind of surprised Peter didn’t take off for Galilee; but did you see it. “and Peter.” He called him by name. It was the second chance that Peter was hoping for. He wasn’t a total failure.
