Peter was so devoted, so outspoken, from the beginning. At once he left his fishing net to follow Jesus. And remember when he boldly suggested making some tents for Elijah and Moses at the Transfiguration? He declared that Jesus would never wash his feet, and when corrected he said, “Ok fine, not just my feet, but my whole body!” Whatever he did he did it wholeheartedly, and though he did some embarrassing things, he was never deterred from his passion. According to John’s gospel, Peter was the one who cut off the ear of the high priest’s servant with his sword when they came to arrest Jesus. By all accounts Peter was fiercely loyal.

So what happens today seems nearly impossible. This passage puts on display the chilling reality that all the passion and zeal in the world doesn’t necessarily translate into integrity when push comes to shove. As you listen to this passage, consider the ways that you can relate to Peter.

----------REFLECT----------

1. What word or phrase stood out to you in the passage?

2. Have you ever seen someone who seemed so devoted (either to a significant other, a cause, a church or something else) just walk away ? What effect did that action have on you or others around them?

3. After 3 denials, Peter breaks down and weeps. The words mean that he threw himself down and cried out. Have you ever felt like you failed Jesus? Consider this: Jesus predicted that Peter would deny him…. Yet he still went to the cross on his behalf. Jesus knows your failures… and he still chose to die for you.

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