Lent: Day 31

The detachment, the commanding officer, and the officer of the Jews, seized Jesus and bound him, and led him first to Annas, father-in-law to Caiaphas, the high priest that year who had advised the Jews it was expedient that one man should perish for the people. Simon Peter followed Jesus, as did another disciple. The other disciple was known to the high priest, and entered in with Jesus to the court of the high priest, but Peter stood at the door outside until the other disciple went out and spoke to the doorkeeper, and brought in Peter. Then the maid who kept the door said to Peter, “You were also with the Nazarene, Jesus. Are you one of his disciples?”

He denied it, saying, “I’m not. I don’t know or understand what you say.” 

The servants and the officers were standing there, warming themselves from a fire of coals, for it was cold. Peter was with them, standing and warming himself. The maid saw him, and began again to tell those who stood by, “This is one of them.” But he again denied it, saying, “Woman, I don’t know him.”

After about an hour, those who stood by said to Peter, “You truly are one of them, for you are a Galilean, and your speech shows it.” But he began to curse, and to swear, “I don’t know this man of whom you speak!” 

While he was still speaking, a rooster crowed. The Lord turned, and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the Lord’s word, how he said to him, “Before the rooster crows you will deny me three times.” He went out, and wept bitterly.

Reflection

 

During the Last Supper, Peter was confident he would never deny Jesus, but only a few hours later he denied him three times. Have you ever over-estimated your ability to resist temptation or show courage in the face of conflict? What effect did your actions (or lack of action) have on your self-image and self-confidence? 

Prayer: Forgive me, Lord, for thinking I can handle life’s challenges in my own strength.