But go, tell His
disciples–and Peter–that He is going before you into Galilee; there you will
see Him, as He said to you.
Mark 16:7
Does God give second
chances to those who have failed Him? He certainly did so for Peter. Peter had
proudly announced that he was Jesus’ most reliable disciple (Matt. 26:33). Yet
Peter not only fled with the other disciples in the moment of crisis, but also
blatantly denied he even knew Jesus (Matt. 26:69-75). Peter failed so miserably
that he went out into the night and wept bitterly (Luke 22:62).
How compassionate the
risen Christ was to Peter! The angel gave the women at the tomb special
instructions to let Peter know that He was risen. Jesus took Peter aside to
allow him the opportunity to reaffirm his love and commitment (John 21:15-17).
The risen Lord also chose Peter as His primary spokesman on the day of
Pentecost, when three thousand people were added to the church.
God’s desire is to take
you from where you are and bring you to where He wants you to be. When He found
His defeated followers hiding together in an upper room, Jesus’ first word was
“peace” (John 20:19). Jesus’ first words to you after you fail may also be
“peace.” Jesus will find you in despair and bring you peace. Then, He will
reorient you to Himself so that you can believe Him and follow Him. Don’t give
up if you have failed your Lord. Remember what happened to Peter. God has not
yet finished developing you as a disciple.
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