READING: Mark 14:53-65, Matthew 26:57-68, Mark 14:66-72, Matthew 26:69-75, Luke 22:54-62, John 18:25-27, Mark 15:1, Matthew 27:1-2, Luke 22:66-71, Matthew 27:3-10
We must affirm Simon Peter for following Jesus when it seems other disciples cowered in fear after He was arrested, but still we recognize that Peter followed Jesus “from a distance.” He was apparently close enough that he could see what was happening to Jesus, but not so close that he risked his own safety. Curiosity and love compelled him to hang around, but fear kept him at a distance. Waiting to see how this painful situation would end (Matt 26:58) and recognizing danger, the apostle denied even knowing Jesus.
In the midst of Peter’s emotional denial, though, “the Lord turned and looked at Peter” (Luke 22:61). Peter may have been refusing to admit his connection to Jesus, but the Lord did not take His eyes off the denying disciple. The eyes of the Lord and the crowing of a rooster reduced the fisherman to tears of grief.
PERSONAL REFLECTION: Are your words or actions denying Jesus in any way?
DAILY PRAYER: “Lord, thank You for keeping Your eyes on me even in my rebellion.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Mark 15:2-5, Matthew 27:11-14, Luke 23:1-12, John 18:28-40, Mark 15:6-15, Matthew 27:15-26, Luke 23:13-25, John 19:1-16, Mark 15:16-20, Matthew 27:27-31, Luke 22:63-65