Thursday
And again He came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were very heavy, and they did not know what to answer Him. Mark 14:40
Cameron sings a song about our God of second chances. There’s a new book about this God, and the first sentence is this: “The door slammed behind me as I entered the sixth floor of the Duval County jail escorted by guards, hands chained in front of me, and leg shackles making music with every step.” And of course, there is the Veggie Tales song about Jonah and the Whale and the Green Asparagus Choir ‘s rocking gospel version God of Second Chances.
Little did Peter know that he was laying the groundwork for his restoration when he rather smugly asked Jesus how many times he should forgive his brother, “Seven times?”
Even now Peter had not relinquished self. Still dressed in smug remnants, he had said emphatically, “If I must die with you, I will not deny you.” Smug describes any of us Pharisee types who still pretend that we can pretty much do it, the Law, on our own goodness and smarts. Sunday’s sermon of a careening snow saucer’s out-of-control wild ride surely described this Thursday night by the blazing bonfire where Peter warmed himself. Until the second cock’s crow pierced the facade, and he wept bitter tears of understanding. At last he joined the tax collectors, the Centurion, and the weeping women at the feet of Jesus. We are not worthy. Maybe he was even remembering His words of caution, But whoever shall deny Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father.
But Jesus was not done with him yet. Meeting once again on the other side of the Darkness, He asks, “Peter, do you all-giving-unconditionally-unselfishing-love me? And Peter answers, “Lord, you know I have friendly-affection for You.” This was enough for our seven-times-seventy Lord Jesus.
Peter, feed my sheep.
Christy, feed my sheep.
It’s not about words. It’s about fruit. The fruit of the Holy Spirit let loose in a broken heart.
In this light, Paul’s letter to the Romans is all about life and peace.
Now we are released from the law, having died to that which held us captive, so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit and not in the old way of the written code.
For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out.
Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?
There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.
Those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.
Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on me.
Melt me, mold me, fill me, use me.
Wipe the sleep out of my eyes.
