Well, Father, it all begins tomorrow – another year of students, of driving, of early to bed, early to rise. May You watch over us, direct us, and protect us. Amen.
John 13:31-38 (<<click here to read the passage)
I’m sure that at some point in my life I have been seriously embarrassed due to the fact that I was not able to come through on a promise I had made. The only thing in particular that comes to mind is when I had substantial papers that I had to turn in while in college. Of course, it wasn’t so much a promise but a responsibility I needed to fulfill to complete my coursework.
I think one of them was a Music History paper. It was a huge endeavor. The part I was able to complete was pretty decent. I had even copied some nice illustrations to place amongst the text, but I had bitten off way more than I could chew. That, accompanied by not starting as early as I should have, left me with no choice but to turn in a partially completed paper.
There are times when our aspirations exceed our abilities. We have good intentions, but you know what they say about those!
In today’s passage, I think Peter truly believed he would do what he said he would do. “I’m ready to die for you,” he wholeheartedly exclaimed. There was no doubt in his heart and mind.
But Jesus saw more clearly. He saw beyond Peter’s good intentions. He knew that when it came right down to it that Peter wouldn’t be able to come through with his intentions no matter how good they were. And in reply to Peter’s exclamation,
Jesus answered, “Die for me? I tell you the truth, Peter—before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.” v38 NLT
The thing is, even with those words, there is no animosity in Jesus’ words – neither here, nor in the words that followed. It was simply a statement of truth.
We don’t know what Peter did or thought in response. He may not even have really processed the ramifications at all…at least not then. Later he surely would, as the rooster crowed. Suddenly, Jesus’ words flashed through Peter’s mind…and he broke down and wept. Mark 14:72 NLT
There is certainly nothing wrong with dreaming – and even dreaming big! – but maybe it is best that though we may be ardently pushing towards a goal, that we should concentrate on placing our foot one solid step at a time. Seeking God’s direction. Making sure that we are stepping where He thinks best. There’s nothing wrong with good intentions. Let’s just make sure we follow through, leaving nothing behind.
Sept 6th, 2021, Mon, 4:47 pm
