Thoughts for another day

Aug. 21, 2009

Today's verse: Lk. 22:32. But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)

To understand this better, I’d request you put yourself in Peter’s shoes as Jesus utters this statement. Before this too, they’d celebrated Passover; but never was it like this. A softness and pensiveness had entered the Lord; it was like a man with a premonition of his death, seeking forgiveness from his wife, family, etc. He spoke of His suffering when breaking bread and blessing wine; it was getting to be rather special and very moving.

Peter probably wondered: just a few days before everything was great. Jesus’ stature was growing day to day, notwithstanding the Pharisees and the priests who were baying for His blood. More and more people were coming to Him and seeking healing and ascribing to Him, the glory due Him. But that evening, the all powerful Son of God, Jesus had changed. He seemed to hold a fear of powerlessness. Besides, it was also as if He was giving them instructions about what they should do when He was gone and to their uninitiated minds it was difficult to digest. Confusion crept into Peter’s mind. He was thinking what might happen, when suddenly Jesus turned to him and made a stunning forecast, one that filled Peter with distaste. He was Peter the invincible and a strong personality. Then how could the Lord tell him that Satan would sift him, he who was willing to die for Him?

Understand the Words Jesus told Him. Jesus knows our weaknesses and also that we’re mere humans who’ll stray now and then. At times we may stray so much, that turning back may seem impossible; and in that context, Jesus’ words to Peter make much sense. Even when we sin to the extent of even discounting His very Presence, let’s remember He’s praying for us. He’s also praying that after we go through that stage, we in turn should strengthen and fortify our brothers who face similar situations.