As Easter comes by each year, there is often reflection on the fact that Peter denied Christ. There is mention of how he was asked three times if he knew or was with Jesus. Each of those three times, he denies knowing Jesus or even understanding what is being asked.

As these reflections happen, Peter is often given a roasting and we reflect that we don’t want to be like Peter at this point. We are encouraged to be committed to Christ.

Agreed.

However, I find it rare in these reflections on Peter’s denial for someone to point out the fact that Peter was actually in the courtyard of the High Priest as Jesus was on trial with the Sanhedrin, as opposed to completely MIA.

Rewind to Mark 14:50 and we’re told:

Then everyone deserted him and fled.

But Peter came back.

They took Jesus to the high priest, and all the chief priests, elders and teachers of the law came together. Peter followed him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest.

I think if we get up on our high horse too quickly with Peter’s denials, we’re not being real. And we’re not acknowledging the dangerous situation Peter was in; nor the fact that he actually followed Jesus and was nearby in his darkest hour.

He didn’t run away and refuse to return.

He was right there in the action.

Sure, he made a mess of it, but he’s human.

As I reflect on Peter’s behaviour I have to ask myself whether I’m in the action or whether I’ve gone MIA.

Sure, you could have a squeaky-clean slate. But if you’ve never done battle with anything, what does that prove?

Or as Billy Graham once said: “If you’re not making mistakes, you’re not doing anything.”

Yours trying to do something,

Alison