Christian Reflection and Prayer

Scripture:

Read Luke 22:54-62.
TEXT: Then they seized Him and led Him away ...
and Peter was following at a distance (see Luke 22:54).

When Jesus is arrested the disciples scatter in fear
and go into hiding-all, that is, except for Peter. He
follows at a distance then slips into the courtyard,
posing as one of the temple police. Though it seems
bold and courageous, Jesus does not want him there.
He wants him safe with the other disciples. There is no
reason for Peter to put himself in jeopardy. Jesus has
already spelled out exactly what will happen.

In the cold night air the guards light a fire and Peter sits
down to warm himself. But the firelight betrays him.
Carefully studying his face, a maid points him out to the
other guards: "This man also was with Him." Realizing
the grave danger, Peter quickly answers, "Woman, I
do not know Him."

A short time later someone else recognizes him and
says, "You also are one of them."
Peter answers, "Man, I am not." Luke's narrative is kind
to Peter; he only mentions the denials, not the oaths
and curses he calls down on himself.

An hour later still another challenges him, "Certainly, this
man also was with Him, for he too is a Galilean."

Peter snaps back, "Man, I do not know what you are
talking about." And immediately he hears a rooster
crowing and turns and looks straight into Jesus' face-even
as the words of his third denial are pouring from his lips.

Remembering Jesus' prediction, Peter goes out and
weeps bitterly. In its own way Peter's denial was as painful
for Jesus as was Judas' betrayal. For Peter the guilt and
shame must have been dreadful.

THE PRAYER:

Lord Jesus, You looked in love on Peter in the midst of his
sin. Look on me in my sins and turn me to sorrow and regret,
so I may run to You for forgiveness and peace. Amen.

(Lutheran Hour Ministries)

This week, Senator Jeff Sessions said we have
no “moral or legal responsibility to reward
somebody who entered the country [without
documentation].” [1] His comment ignores the
fact that any path to citizenship for undocumented
immigrants is likely to involve fines and penalties.
More important, he is just wrong. As Christians
we have a clear, moral responsibility to care about
every child of God, regardless of their documentation
status.

This statement is a direct challenge to the growing
support from people of faith for immigration reform.
We need to remind Sen. Sessions that our moral
responsibility is real.

Immigration reform is not about politics. It is about
the biblical call to welcome the stranger and care
for the least of these. We have a moral responsibility
to fix the broken immigration system that is hurting
our brothers and sisters. Both Republicans and
Democrats agree that a solution should include a
roadmap to citizenship for the 11 million aspiring
Americans who are contributing to our society.

Sen. Sessions’ statement cannot go unchallenged.
Tell the senator that you believe we have a moral
responsibility to care about ALL our sisters and
brothers.

(Sojourners)

Scripture:

Read Luke 22:35-38, 47-53.
TEXT: "Lord, shall we strike with the sword?"
(see Luke 22:49).

While still in the upper room, Jesus had told His
disciples, "Let the one who has no sword sell his
cloak and buy one." The disciples had answered,
"Look, Lord, here are two swords." When Jesus
said, "It is enough," Peter took one of those
swords along to the Mount of Olives.

Now as they see Jesus surrounded by the temple
guards, the disciples ask if He wants them to
attack with the sword. But before Jesus can
answer, Peter draws out his sword and strikes it
against a guard standing nearby. Apparently, he
was trying to split the man's skull and missed,
cutting off his right ear instead. It may seem
strange for one lone man to attack a whole
company of armed men, but Peter was going to
do his part to set Jesus free.

Knowing Peter's attack could lead the guards to
draw their swords and attack the disciples, Jesus
steps forward and takes charge of the situation.
He miraculously heals the servant's ear and brings
peace and order back to the garden. This will be
Jesus' last miracle before His death and
resurrection. It is important to note He does it for
one of the enemies who has come to arrest Him
and lead Him to His death.

Does Judas see this miracle? It is proof that Jesus
is still concerned for His enemies. He is willing to
forgive Judas and restore him-if only he will believe
it in his hour of guilt and regret.

THE PRAYER:

Lord Jesus, You put Peter's sword back into its
sheath and showed kindness to a stricken enemy,
as You went forward to save us by Your suffering
and death. In all times, and especially in danger,
help me entrust myself into Your mighty
hands. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

(Lutheran Hour Ministries)