Luke 21-22
We might 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. Three times, in fact — exactly what he had said he would never do.
In the midst of Peter’s emotional denial, though, “the Lord turned and looked at Peter” (Luke 22:61). That’s the verse that is most gripping for me today. 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. We are wise to remember today that the Lord’s eyes are always on us.
RESPONSE: His eyes are on you whatever you do today. Let that truth guide you with wisdom.
