As Mark tells his Gospel story, not only Peter, the leader, said, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” The other disciples said the same. Now, when Jesus is arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane, they all desert him and flee.
We may think, “That evil Judas!” or judge, “Peter should have known better!” but what of
ourselves? We, too, should be more careful and faithful, truly desire the right things, and humbly accept what Jesus says.
“Falling away.” Oh, we are so good at this, aren’t we? “When the going gets tough, the tough get going”, as the saying goes, doesn’t seem to apply to us.
In bigger and less obvious ways, we deny Jesus and betray our trust in him. If we do not remain
close to our Lord through regular prayer and contemplation, we so often lack the courage to stand up to or speak out against what is wrong around us. Too often, we conform comfortably to our worldly lives, listening to other voices and following them. Should we not rather be more conscientious and careful in living out our new Kingdom life in a more daring and bold way, more often listening to the Spirit’s invitation to speak God’s words of warning or healing or comfort and bring glory to
God?
In what ways have I given up on Jesus, even during this past season of Lent? Where have I lacked the courage to stand up or speak out for what is right and just—to be counted? Where have I remained comfortable when God’s Spirit has prompted me to oppose the evil I encounter in myself and others? When have I silently agreed with what is contrary to God’s way and gone along with things?
Reflections by Reggie Venter
