May 11, 2022 -- Mark 14:29 -- Rash vows and the Savior's Prayers
/People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!
Peter said to him, “Even though they all fall away, I will not.”
Mark 14:29 ESV
It is easy to imagine that Peter fell away from Jesus at the moment in the courtyard where he denied knowing Jesus. As I re-read Mark 14 today, part of my morning devotions, I wondered, didn’t Peter actually begin his fall when he could not stay awake with Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane? Jesus warned him and asked him “Simon [Peter], are you asleep?” Could you not watch one hour? Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak” (verses 37-38). Even after that warning, Peter fell asleep a second time.
I have often said I can identify with Peter. Quick to speak, but much slower to engage the brain before speaking. I am like Peter, prepared to make bold statements in dedication to the Lord of Glory, but as quickly falling asleep when the hour of need is nigh.
Thanks be to God we have a Savior Who intercedes for us. Thanks be to God for Jesus Christ Who never failed in prayer, in courage, in faithfulness. Thanks be to God, this same Spirit given to Jesus is given to all who believe.
Mighty King, seated at the Father’s right hand, thank You for Your prayers. Thank You that you know my weakness and know my failures—all of them—past, present and future. Thank You, Father in heaven and dear Savior beside Him, for the gift of Jesus Christ, given while I was yet a sinner. Blessed Spirit, thank You for Your presence in my life. Thank You that by the bequest of God You are given so that I have all things that pertain to life and godliness through the knowledge of Him Who called me to His own Glory. By Your work in me, Spirit of God, bring me to maturity in faith. Amen.
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