I was reading the first chapter of II Peter, where Peter instructs believers in righteous living. He told them that as long as he lived he would remind them of these things and would endeavour to see that even after his death they would be able to recall them. I read verse 14, where Peter said that the Lord Jesus Christ had made clear to him that his death would come very soon.
Something gripped my heart, something so deep, something both sweet and painful. I read the verse again and again. And suddenly I was back in the Upper Room and I heard Peter declare, "I will lay down my life for You." In all the sincere, self-confidence of his proud independence, Peter was sure he could handle it; that he would prove true-blue even though everyone else failed. But we all know that at the crucifixion of the Saviour Peter denied Him.
What now, then, is this intimate, precious fellowship he shares with Jesus? He already knows that his death will come soon and that, in dying, he will truly lay down his life for Jesus. The bravado words of loyalty he didn't know were false back then, would be humbly, victoriously true now.
Never before have I felt such an impact by the fact that the words Peter spoke prior to his denial, actually came true. The Lord heard those words and knew that they rang hollow but He knew all along, even on that awful, heart-breaking day, that there was a day coming when Peter would indeed, willingly, gladly die for Him. Yes, the Lord knew and He led Peter along in a growing fellowship of loving communion and deep, personal relationship.
My heart is so full. Where can I gather words to adequately express my gratitude and longing? My heart yearns for an ever-deepening fellowship with my precious, beautiful, loving Saviour.
Let us remember ... remember ... remember ... that Jesus is the REDEEMER. There is no sin He cannot forgive, no life He cannot restore, no situation He cannot reverse, no rupture in relationships He cannot heal, no need He cannot meet, no grief He cannot comfort, no trial He cannot turn to gold, no tragedy He cannot redeem.
I know that my REDEEMER lives!
With love and prayers,