He Learned Forgiveness From the Master -Conclusion of A Growing Need for Forgiveness

 Was Jesus close to losing his patienc with Peter?  In fact, throughout this difficult time, Jesus kept looking for the good in his imperfect apostles.  He knew that Peter would fail him, yet  He said:  "I have made supplication for you that your faith may not give out; and you, when once you have returned, strengthen your brothers." (Luke 22:32) Jesus thus expressed confidence in Peter's spiritual recovery and his return to faithful service. What a kind forgiving spirit.

Later, in the gardenof Gethsemane, Peter needed correction more than  once. Jesus asked him, as well as James and John, to keep on the watch while he prayed. Jesus was in emotional agony and in need of support, but Peter and the others fell asleep repeatedly.  Jesus made this sympathetic and forgiving Observation: "The spirit, of course is eager, but the flesh is weak." - MARK 14:32-41.

Before  long, a mob arrived. bearing torches and armed with swords and clubs.  Here was a time to act with caution and discretion.  Yet, Peter rashly  leaped into action, swinging a sword a thte head of Maichus, a slave of the high priest, and lopping off one of the man's ears. Jesus calmly corrected Peter, healed the wound, and explained a principle of non-violence that guides his followers to this day. (Matthew 26:47-55; Luke 22:447- 51; John 18: 10, 11)  Peter had already given his Master much to forgive.  His case may remind us that we all sin frequently.  (Read James 3:2)  Who of us does not need divine forgiveness every single day?  For Peter, though, the night was far from over. The worst lay ahead. 

Next time: He Learned Forgiveness From the Master -  Peter's Worst Failure

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