John 18:25-27
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. If you haven’t read the Introduction to John’s Gospel, read it here.
Read John 18:25-26 picturing the scene as if you were there.
We aren’t told what Peter is thinking and feeling in the courtyard, but now that he’s started down the path of denying his relationship with Jesus it’s hard to turn back. Peter, the bold and brave defender of Jesus now boldly denies ever knowing Jesus.
Peter’s denial seems to emanate from a place of fear - probably because he is thoroughly confused at this point as he’s just witnessed the arrest of his leader and hero. Confusion and dashed expectations can leave a person feeling vulnerable, and often in a world gone wrong we are in fact vulnerable to rejection, attack, and even personal harm. The only constant in times of uncertainty is Jesus himself. We won’t always understand where he is leading us or what is happening around us or to us, but if we are able to admit our vulnerability and center ourselves on Jesus, he can and will sustain us. That is his promise to us.
Meditate on these words of Jesus for a moment or two: “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world (John 16:33).”
What might Jesus be inviting you to do in response to these words? Talk to him about this.
Read John 18:25-27 again remembering Jesus’ calm demeanor before Annas and noticing the demeanor of Peter in this passage.
In stark contrast to Jesus’ calm, confident presence before Annas, Peter’s fear is striking. As we considered in yesterday’s meditation, Jesus stood before the high priest firmly rooted in his identity and relationship with God the Father and spoke calmly, directly and truthfully. In the courtyard surrounded by servants of the high priest, Peter seems unmoored and resorts to lies to protect himself.
Just as Jesus was rooted in God the Father, we are to be rooted in Jesus. Jesus is the only one who can reveal who we really are and who we were meant to be, and Jesus is the only one who can give us true courage and strength when we are most vulnerable. Being rooted in Jesus is the only way we will be able to stand in frightening and threatening times.
How secure are you in your identity? Stop for a moment to consider this question and discuss it with Jesus.
For the last few minutes of this meditation, center yourself on Jesus by getting still and focusing on his name. Breathe in deeply saying the name of Jesus silently, and then breathe out a two-word prayer that speaks to your deepest need in this moment. If you need healing, pray: “Jesus, heal me.” If you need direction, pray: “Jesus, guide me.” Whatever you need most, ask it of Jesus. Stay with this breath prayer until you feel fully calm and centered on Jesus.
If during this time of reflection you sensed Jesus calling you toward a certain direction or action, write it down and plan a first step before you move on with your day.
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