This passage clearly demonstrates Jesus' amazing humility and determined obedience to God's will as his time on earth draws ever closer to an end.
The previous chapter focuses on Jesus' prayers for himself, his disciples and for all believers as he prepares for his death. I wonder what role this focus on prayer plays in him being able to be so accepting of God's plan even though it would be painful to the point of death?
Early on in Chapter 18 he is almost saying 'bring it on!' when he approaches those hunting him down...he doesn't shy away or try to avoid them but does the very opposite, coming out to greet them! And when Peter tries to violently intervene by cutting off the servant's ear, Jesus is starkly resolute: Shall I not drink the cup the father has given me?(v11) He knows what he has to do - continue to obey God.
Then Jesus' interactions before the various authorities, none of whom seem to want to take reponsibility are interspersed with Peter's denials. In some ways we're in a better position today than Peter was as we have the Gospels and subsequent books of the bible that help us understand without doubt who Jesus was - we know for certain that God raised him from the dead. Yet, what would we do if we found ourselves in Peter's situation today, knowing that death by association would be the outcome if we proclaimed our faith when challenged? Would we stay true to the Lord or shy away? It's worth us keeping in mind that we have brothers and sisters in Christ facing these very challenges in other parts of the world, suffering persecution or even death simply because of their faith in Jesus - why not say a prayer for them right now, and ask the Lord to keep them firm in their faith the way Jesus was?
Phil (9am@Engadine)
Tomorrows Readings: John 19, Ephesians 2
I think my initial reaction to peters denial is to be comforted in some way about my own denials of Christ (whether they be in thought, word or deed) - but when you relalise his denial is in the face of death (though not excusable) - it shows just how cowardly my denials are with far less at stake :(. May God help us to stand firm in our allegance to him no matter the cost.
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