Today's reading is not a merit story. Peter isn’t seeking wisdom or asking for help—he’s exhausted, frustrated, and, frankly, annoyed.

His response to Jesus’ call is passive-aggressive at best. And yet, Christ still gives him the prize.

Grace strips him bare, exposing his pettiness, his self-absorption, the gap between the life he wants and the life he’s living. And in that moment—raw, humbled, undone—Christ says, “Do not be afraid.”

For in Christ’s kingdom, only the wounded can serve.

In Christ’s service, only the humble are of use.