Surprised by Denial
During this season of Lent, I have been reading the gospel narratives leading to the cross as many do. And I recently came to the account of Peter denying Jesus in Luke 22:54-62. You can find it in all of the gospels. It is heart-wrenching. Peter denies Jesus three times. If it was one time it could easily be explained away as an exceptional outlier. Two times would have been bad enough. But three times. And these denials follow Peter’s fiery words to Jesus, “Lord, I am ready to go with you both to prison and to death” (v. 33). Only to have Jesus respond, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster will not crow this day, until you deny three times that you know me.”
In Peter’s mind, these were fighting words of challenge that placed his character at stake. Resolve could not have been higher. He would not lose this battle for anything. He could not fail. Yet, after three opportunities to take a stand for Jesus, he crumbles. Even while still voicing his denial to the third interlocutor, the rooster crows. Jesus turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered. “And he went out and wept bitterly” (v. 62). He probably surprised himself. He thought he could do it. He was so sure. Yet he failed.
Can’t we sympathize with Peter? I’m sure. So many times we think we can follow Jesus. We are so determined. Yet also surprised. We likewise fail and weep bitterly. This passage brings great consolation. We are not alone. And more than sympathy there’s a deeper encouragement in the passage. While we might be surprised when we fail because of our erroneous assessment of ourselves, Jesus isn’t. Jesus isn’t surprised. In fact, even before Peter pronounces his commitment to Jesus even to prison and death, Jesus foretells the failure. Jesus says: “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers” (v. 31).
Jesus wasn’t surprised! He knew Peter would fail. And Jesus intercedes for Peter’s faith and reveals his repentance and ministry. Even in Peter’s worst failure, Jesus is working. May we be encouraged. In our failure, Jesus is working. He isn’t surprised. He understands our weak and weary hearts. And He’s interceding for us. He is working for us evidenced by the greatest work of the cross and empty tomb. Be encouraged in this season of Lent as we focus upon Jesus.