Hard to Hide
Scripture Reading — Luke 22:54-62
Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: “Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times.” And he went outside and wept bitterly.
I feel for Peter. He can’t completely abandon Jesus even though there’s nothing he can do. He at least tries to be there. But being there puts him in a difficult position. If the people there find out he’s with Jesus, who knows what might happen? Will he be arrested too? Whatever Peter’s reasons are, he feels that his best option is to stay close to Jesus but to deny that he is a disciple.
But it’s hard to hide one’s love for Jesus. Peter tries to fit in; he gets right in the middle of the group by the fire. But he still sticks out. As the night wears on, the accusations grow stronger, and Peter’s denials grow more desperate and anxious. Then he hears the rooster crow.
As Jesus turns to look at him, suddenly it’s all clear to Peter. He remembers that Jesus knew this was coming. He may even remember how Jesus had predicted his own death (Luke 18:31-34). This is more than Peter can take, and he runs out and weeps.
This story is here in part so that we can learn from Peter. Sometimes we Christians try to pretend as if we fit into the world. But it’s hard to hide our love for Jesus. We might as well come right out with it and show that we believe and trust in him.
Dear Jesus, thank you for what you have done for us. Help me today to believe and to live my faith openly. Give me the courage not to fit in. Amen.
About the author — Scott DeVries
Scott DeVries has served as a church pastor and as a ministry coordinator in the Holland, Michigan, area. He currently works at facilitating connections between the more than twenty ministries and 1,100 churches of the Christian Reformed Church in North America. He has a passion for prayer, church organization, and studying the Scriptures in their original languages.
Start your day with quick daily devotions.
See God's love, power, presence, and purpose in your life every day!