City Life Starter

Written by Aisha Darwesh

The Word

¹⁸ Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go.” ¹⁹(This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.) And after saying this he said to him, “Follow me.”

Aisha’s Analysis

In today’s verses, Jesus is calling Peter to a new way of life. He starts by identifying the way it was, “when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted…” 

This statement describes the Peter we know in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Of all the disciples, Peter was the most impetuous and outspoken. He rebuked Jesus when Jesus predicted His death (Matthew 16:22). At Jesus’ transfiguration, Peter boldly suggested to build three tabernacles to commemorate the holy moment (Matthew 17:4). In the midst of a terrifying storm, Peter was the only one of the disciples who was gutsy enough to get out of the boat and walk on water (Matthew 14:29). At Jesus’ arrest, Peter chopped off someone’s ear (John 18:10). Peter was known for his bold decisions and self-proclaimed love for Jesus. 

Given Peter’s position and proximity to Jesus, not to mention the sheer force of his passionate personality, he could have easily taken over the early church. However, that’s not at all how his story panned out. Peter embraced suffering. He submitted to the authority of Christ in humble adoration. It’s hard to believe the same Peter described above could pen these words, “Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time” (1 Peter 5:6). 

While he may have started out somewhat brash and headstrong, Peter eventually learned how to let God dress and carry him. He learned to follow Jesus even unto death on a cross. 

Seeing the marked transformation of Peter should give us all hope that we can yield to God and see His Kingdom purposes prevail in our lives regardless of our past mistakes or misconceptions. 

Application

Have you ever made an epic mistake? Have you ever thought things were going to turn out one way but they took a turn in the complete opposite direction? If we’re honest, I’m sure we can all answer a resounding “Yes” to those questions. That’s okay because we’re in good company. Peter led the charge on that front, and look at how God beckoned his heart into humble submission and empowered him to lead by following the Holy Spirit. 

We all make mistakes, and that’s no surprise to God. Jesus looked at Peter squarely in the face at the very moment the rooster crowed (see Luke 22:54-62 to read the full story).   

Take a moment to examine your heart for any crowing roosters. Are you rehearsing past mistakes or living in regret? Are you unable to reconcile the plans you made with the way things turned out? If so, here’s the application for today: don’t disqualify yourself. Just because things didn’t go according to your plan doesn’t mean God’s plan is ruined. Jesus knew exactly where to find Peter and exactly how to heal him from his past mistakes. He can do the same with you.

Trust God to come find you. Allow Him to heal your heart by reaffirming your love and commitment to Him today. Be willing to follow where He leads you.

Prayer

Father God, I tried doing things my own way, and it just doesn’t work. I need Your guidance and direction. I need You to cover me and lead me, even if it involves going somewhere I didn’t plan on. I trust You. I’m laying aside my plans to follow Yours. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.