Hello, I’m Daniel Westfall on the channel “Pray with Me”.

When someone writes my biography, I want them to skip the shameful episodes. But Gospel writer John didn’t show that courtesy to his friend Peter. 

In John 18, Peter lied three times, saying he wasn’t Jesus’ disciple. 

John’s gospel is supposed to be good news about Jesus. So why does it publish bad news about Peter? Peter’s hypocrisy sure doesn’t show Jesus as an amazing teacher.

Here’s the story. When Jesus was arrested, Peter was in fighting mode. He pulled his sword and chopped off someone’s ear. The next day, Peter was in full retreat.  “Umm, Jesus? You think I know him? Remind me who he is.” 

For three years, Peter had grown accustomed to miracles–water into wine, lunch for 5,000, storms stilled, walking on water. Exciting times with a powerful Jesus. That was Peter’s life. 

But now Jesus has been arrested, accused, condemned. He could say something to make soldiers back off. He could just walk away from trouble. But no! This time Jesus quietly submits to false accusations and miscarried justice. 

Yesterday Peter used his sword in a story he understood. Today the story has changed, and Peter backs away from a plot that is going wrong.  

Let’s pray. 

O Jesus, we know your story. Miracles. Wine. Free lunch. Storms stilled. Critics silenced. Disciples learning a new way to God. 

But Peter, and we, have come to see another side of you. Walking into trouble instead of on water. Being interrogated instead of controlling the narrative. Risking your life under a corrupt religion and an unjust empire. 

Like Peter, we follow because you are powerful, not weak. We come for truth, not for the lies and conspiracies that now circle round you. We follow because we thought justice would win, but today’s headlines are partisan religion and corrupt politics.

O Jesus, help us find our place with you, wherever your story leads. In this confusing life, may we walk with you. In good times and bad, may we follow faithfully. 

Teach us to walk with you.

Amen.

I’m Daniel, on the channel “Pray with Me”.

YouTube channel: Pray with Me – YouTube.