4 Then Jesus, knowing all that would happen to him, came forward and said to them,“Whom do you seek?” 5 They answered him, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus said to them, “I am he.” Judas, who betrayed him, was standing with them. 6 When Jesus said to them, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground.7 So he asked them again, “Whom do you seek?” And they said, “Jesus of Nazareth.” 8 Jesus answered, “I told you that I am he. So, if you seek me, let these men go.” 9 This was to fulfill the word that he had spoken: “Of those whom you gave me I have lost not one.” 10 Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant and cut off his right ear. (The servant’s name was Malchus.) 11 So Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword into its sheath; shall I not drink the cup that the Father has given me?”
25 Now Simon Peter was standing and warming himself. So they said to him, “You also are not one of his disciples, are you?” He denied it and said, “I am not.” 26 One of the servants of the high priest, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, asked, “Did I not see you in the garden with him?” 27 Peter again denied it, and at once a rooster crowed.
Meditation:
- Peter seemed brave to take up a sword and attack the mob that approached Jesus. He was rebuked by Jesus. Have you also attempted at times to “help God out” in your own strength and wisdom? Then later, when Pete was threatened, he realized his vulnerability and, in fear, disowned his Lord.
- How does the story of Peter both humble and encourage you? When have you felt competent and righteous but become weak and fallen like Peter?
- Talk to God about this. Allow the Holy Spirit to work to heal and to mold you slowly and surely.
Suggestion for Family Devotional Time: Ask family members to share a time when they denied being followers of Christ. The denial may not have been as blatant as Peter’s denial in v25. Nevertheless, either verbally or through actions, you denied knowing Jesus. Discuss your feelings. How did you get right with God again after your denial? Be sensitive to confession needs during this time.
Prayer & Journaling: On your prayer journal, as you listen to God, write down a few thoughts, questions, words, names, drawings, or anything that has come to your mind during this time.
Proverbs for Today 11:18-20
18 The wicked earns deceptive wages, but one who sows righteousness gets a sure reward. 19 Whoever is steadfast in righteousness will live, but he who pursues evil will die. 20 Those of crooked heart are an abomination to the Lord, but those of blameless ways are his delight.