Today’s scripture: John 18:13-18, 25-27 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Julie Walsh):
I can look right through John’s words and see the fear that reverberated through Peter’s soul when he repeatedly denied Jesus. This same fear can provoke us to act in ways that are contrary to our morals and values.
When we fear getting into trouble at work, we may feel that our only course of action is to lie, to blame someone else, or to hide our mistakes just to save face.
When we fear financial disaster, we may be tempted to gamble, cheat on our taxes, or steal to get by.
When we fear death, we may divert our attention as a way to avoid reality or bargain and plead with doctors and with God.
We fear failure, being rejected, being outed, facing change…
In all of these fears and more, one key coping response we use is denial. Denying that we had anything to do with that error at work. Denying that we may have caused our financial mess. Denying that we may be closer to death than we’d like to admit. Denying that we have failed or have been rejected. Denying our authentic selves in order to salvage relationships with family and friends. Denying that change must happen to grow and strengthen us.
Like Peter who denied Jesus out of fear for his own life, we too may be motivated to respond to fear in this way. Peter’s story challenges us to consider how we will respond in stressful situations. Will we, like Peter, deny reality or will we choose to face our fears, adjust our perspective, and respond with integrity and honor?
Prayer for the day: God, I respect the fears that move within me. May these fears not control who I am or how I respond. Help me to move beyond denial, carefully weigh my decisions, and respond to my fear with authenticity and truth.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.