That Morning

While Peter was below in the courtyard, one of the servant-girls of the high priest came by. When she saw Peter warming himself, she stared at him and said, “You also were with Jesus, the man from Nazareth.” But he denied it, saying, “I do not know or understand what you are talking about.” And he went out into the forecourt. Then the cock crowed. And the servant-girl, on seeing him, began again to say to the bystanders, “This man is one of them.” But again he denied it. Then after a little while the bystanders again said to Peter, “Certainly you are one of them; for you are a Galilean.” But he began to curse, and he swore an oath, “I do not know this man you are talking about.” At that moment the cock crowed for the second time. Then Peter remembered that Jesus had said to him, “Before the cock crows twice, you will deny me three times.” And he broke down and wept. Mark 14:66-72 

There are days that we think change everything, for good or for ill. The anticipation, the fears, the hope, the worry. We can't imagine the days beyond because we are so fixed on that day. First day back to school, first day in a new job - these and many more are days we imagine over and over, cringing with fear, hope and excitement, all at the same time. Even thise who are very calm and skillful, know that days of great transition are days of fear and trembling.

We find Peter at one of the hardest moments of his life. He has gone from a traditional dinner to the arrest and betrayal of his friend and teacher. Trying to find out what is going on, he is outed by a girl who recognized him. He is terrified for his life, and he denies his relationship with Jesus. In the same position, we think we might not do as he did. I know, under that pressure, I too would deny him. That kind of morning, we have all had. And we have wept afterwards in shame. And, despite all that will follow in the immediate days, Peter's faith is kindled and rekindled. His worst moment, that morning, invite us to know that God forgives our failures and will restore our faith and strength.

Today, I ask God to help me trust that there will be more strength and faith with every rough transition and ahrd shock I face. May we not fear those mornings, knowing that we will be forgiven, lifted up and restored, despite our failings and our fears.