Denying Jesus

AM Psalm 26, 28; PM Psalm 36, 39
1 Kings 8:65-9:9; James 2:14-26; Mark 14:66-72

Our gospel reading today is a powerful and humbling reflection on our human tendencies. Peter had every reason to fear for his life. The way it unfolds in the reading gives us three distinct circumstances that we face to this day. First, an individual servant girl asks him if he’s with Jesus. Then, she relays to the bystanders that he’s with Jesus. Finally, the bystanders openly accuse him of being with Jesus. As the situation escalates, his denial becomes more and more adamant.

In our present-day world, being associated with Jesus is every bit as complicated. When we are asked by someone if we are a “Christian,” it is easy to feel the need to qualify what “kind” of Christian we are. Our response very much depends on who is asking. It’s easier to explain to an individual, but when someone characterizes us that way to a crowd it gets more complicated, and it is when we are being labeled such by an accusatory crowd that we are likely to start cussing like Peter.

What is the solution? I personally find that in what feels like the essential epilogue to this story. After Jesus has risen from the dead, while having breakfast on the beach, Jesus gives Peter the opportunity to express his love as many times as he denied him. Each time he was given an instruction to care for Jesus’ followers. Rather than trying to explain political or theological nuances, it is easier to respond with “I love Jesus.” Then it is in the grace, love, and service that we offer that people find the truth of our witness.

Written by Dan Robinson

Dan Robinson is the Director of Media Ministries at St. Paul’s, overseeing the streaming of the services online.