FROM TODAY’S READING (4/9/2020)...
EASTER WEEK
“The denial by Peter may have been the saddest experience of all for Jesus during that night before his death. The question may be asked: Why did Peter do it? He did not intend to. Obviously he didn't want to, for he was stricken immediately with overpowering remorse.
Having had the same kind of experiences, most of us can identify with Peter. Under the pressure of public opinion, because we want to fit in or get ahead, we sometimes say or do things that are unworthy of Christians. Even while we say and do them, we are aware that this does not represent our best self.
There are two aspects to Peter's experience that give us hope. One is the fact that God's grace is great enough to forgive men such unfaithfulness. The other is that people can become better than they now are. Tradition tells us that Peter was martyred for his Lord. Thus, we also can hope to become stronger in our faith.”
Teacher’s Bible Commentary
Matthew 26:69-75 (NLT) Meanwhile, Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard. A servant girl came over and said to him, “You were one of those with Jesus the Galilean.”
But Peter denied it in front of everyone. “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” he said.
Later, out by the gate, another servant girl noticed him and said to those standing around, “This man was with Jesus of Nazareth.
Again Peter denied it, this time with an oath. “I don’t even know the man,” he said.
A little later some of the other bystanders came over to Peter and said, “You must be one of them; we can tell by your Galilean accent.”
Peter swore, “A curse on me if I’m lying—I don’t know the man!” And immediately the rooster crowed.
Suddenly, Jesus’ words flashed through Peter’s mind: “Before the rooster crows, you will deny three times that you even know me.” And he went away, weeping bitterly.
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