A few years ago I went on this retreat called an Emmaus Walk. I’ve worked several others since then, but tonight, a squadmate said something that reminded me of my walk. She pointed out verses about the end times, and questioned her response. And, naturally, I began questioning mine.
I don’t like the answers I’m finding, and the truth hiding in my heart.
Without giving too much away, one of the chapel services during an Emmaus Walk is called “Four Responses”. You hear about the ways four different people responded to Jesus, and are asked to identify with one of them.
Until tonight, I never knew exactly which one I identified with. But God whispered to me several times:
“You’re like Peter. You’re like Peter.”
At first that broke my heart, and still does a bit. Peter walked with Jesus for years and still denied Him “when it counted”.
But here’s the thing: Peter’s story didn’t end there. Peter still knew Jesus, and had a relationship with Him. And one glorious day, Peter discovered the grace of God. Peter wasn’t left to be remembered as a betrayer. Jesus restored him, and Peter stood for Jesus. In fact, Peter died for Jesus.
I have failed my God so many times. I have denied Him in so many ways; ways that I’m just beginning to even recognize. My priorities are skewed. I am prideful, and I seek comfort and security in nearly everyone else but God.
I am like Peter. But like Peter, my story isn’t over.
So, I ask you:
Deep in your heart, in that place where it’s uncomfortable, where you have to be honest with yourself, how are you responding to Jesus?
