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Topic: Resolutions (12/29/03)
TITLE: The Flaw By Allen Clupny 01/02/04 |
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Peter was a precious soul whose heart was often bigger than his resolve. He tried to stay awake as Jesus prayed and nearly missed Moses and Elijah encourage the Messiah. He wanted to walk on the water, but faltered when the waves slapped his face. He also thought his devotion to the Lord was greater than his fear. But he found his resolution was flawed. Peter saw himself through words that revealed his pearl-like sheen. Then Jesus spoke words that went through him.
Listen to Peter ask Jesus, “Lord, where are you going?"
Jesus replied, "Where I am going you cannot follow me now, but you will follow me afterward."
Peter went on, "Lord, why can’t I follow you now?” Then proclaimed, “I will lay down my life for your sake."
I don’t know what Jesus’ tone was like after hearing this big-hearted man declare himself. But Jesus’ next words humbled and perhaps encouraged his friend. "Will you lay down your life for my sake? Most assuredly, I say to you, the rooster will not crow until you have denied me three times. Let your heart not be troubled; believe in God, believe also in me.”
Our God is like that; exposing our weakness only to remind us of where our resolve comes from. The psalmist said it nicely. “The LORD preserves the simple: I was brought low, and he helped me.” (Psalm 116:6)