Mark 14:27-42
Peter…
Peter is likely transcribing all his memories to Mark. So, as we read this section consider the embarrassing and personally harmful things Peter in his newfound humility is actually recording via Mark for us.
It is a wonderful example of God’s Grace in a person’s life as they mature and are seasoned in humility. Remember, you are growing nicely too!!
Jesus begins by saying, “All of you will be made to stumble because of me this night.”
Have you ever noticed God does things in and around your life often through other believers that simply make you scratch your head? There are times for us it can make us “stumble” too. Just know it is all “father filtered.”
Peter let’s Jesus know he will NOT be stumbled by Jesus. The word “vehemently” that Peter uses with Mark to describe his defense of Jesus is the same word used to describe his later denials of Jesus. Passion can be wonderful and it can be treacherous.
They go to Gethsemane (wine press), which was relatively unknown to most people in their day but they went there often. Thus, the fellas knew all the super comfy places to grab a nap
Jesus three times asks his inner circle guys, His Crew, His boys…to…simply…pray…
They fell asleep…three times!!
Don’t be so hard on yourself when you experience, “the Spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Jesus refers to Peter as Simon or “sifting sand” as opposed to “Rock.”
Remember, words have meaning.
Jesus in his manishness prays, Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not what I will but Your will.” Abba is a very tender reference like papa or daddy…
Thankfully God did not honor Jesus’ plea to take the pain of this moment away, for on this decision to go to the cross and defeat death, hinges all of humanity. Remember a “no” from God could be the very thing you and I need to hear most. Also, don’t miss this for you…”all things are possible for You, (God).
Perhaps in your life today there is drama and trauma…some of it like in Peter’s case you may be misunderstanding…God is actually saving you! The possibilities before you are life and not death. Plus, as Peter transcribes via Mark his very own failures and missteps we see humility and wonderful growth in the Lord…same growth in grace you are maturing in too!
Stay tuned for tomorrow because the plot thickness…
“See My betrayer is at hand…”