John 18:15–18 (ESV)
Peter Denies Jesus
15 Simon Peter followed
Jesus, and so did another disciple. Since that disciple was known to the high priest, he entered with Jesus into the courtyard of the high priest, 16 but Peter stood outside at the door. So the other disciple, who was known to the high priest, went out and
spoke to the servant girl who kept watch at the door, and brought Peter in. 17 The servant girl at the door said to Peter, “You also are not one of this man’s disciples, are you?” He said, “I am not.” 18 Now the servants and officers
had made a charcoal fire, because it was cold, and they were standing and warming themselves. Peter also was with them, standing and warming himself.
Jesus told Peter that he would deny him three times.
Today’s reading is the first denial. Peter claimed he would never deny him. Let’s go back to his promise. John 13:37–38 (ESV)
37 Peter said to him, “Lord, why can I not follow
you now? I will lay down my life for you.” 38 Jesus answered, “Will you lay down your life for me? Truly, truly, I say to you, the rooster will not crow till you have denied me three times.” Well, chalk one up for Jesus... He is right
and Peter is wrong. Peter and another disciple follow Jesus. The other disciple is probably John. Peter however hangs back. Notice how the servant girl asks Peter a question in the negative. “You also are not one of
this man’s disciples, are you?” She leaves it easy for Peter to say no. If Peter will never deny Jesus and lay down his life for the Lord... his answer should be “yes”. Peter answers “I am not”.
I pray: “ O Lord, I often make strong statements and promises to you which I break. I find myself falling short over and over again. I look back and chide Peter, but I know deep down that I am
no different. Forgive me of my sins and help me in my daily walk to walk according to your ways. Help me to remember I am saved, not by kept promises, but by your grace and mercy. Your son took my broken promises and sins to the cross.
I give thanks for your forgiveness. Amen.