Matthew 26:30–35 (ESV)
Jesus Foretells Peter’s Denial
30 And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. 31 Then Jesus said to them, “You will all fall away because of me this night. For it is written, ‘I
will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’ 32 But after I am raised up, I will go before you to Galilee.” 33 Peter answered him, “Though they
all fall away because of you, I will never fall away.” 34 Jesus said to him, “Truly, I tell you, this very night, before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times.” 35 Peter
said to him, “Even if I must die with you, I will not deny you!” And all the disciples said the same.
The disciples, especially Peter, do not perceive
the danger. They think they are strong enough to face anything without denying Christ. How often we foolishly copy Peter and substitute recklessness for humble faith. Fortunately, Jesus knows our weaknesses and is ready to restore us, even as He restored Peter.
I pray: Grant us grace to trust Your strength, O Lord, and not our own. Amen.[1]