Today’s scripture: Matthew 19:27-30 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Steve Adams):
As I read this scripture, Peter seems to be way too concerned about what he and the other apostles will get. What if Jesus would have responded a bit differently, such as:
Peter: Look, we have left everything and followed you.
Jesus: OK, Peter, I knew that, but, now that everybody’s been reminded of it, go on!
Peter: What I want to know is, what are WE gonna get because we left everything for you?
Jesus: Don’t worry about it, Peter! Remember the parable I told at the Pharisees’ house about how everybody wants to sit in the best seat at the wedding party so they’ll get the best food and be able to hobnob with the “best” people . . . and that you’re supposed to let somebody else sit in the place of honor? That’s what you’re reminding me of! Why are you focusing on what YOU’LL get rather than those wealthy people whose eternal lives may be in danger? Don’t even worry about yourself. Just know I’ll take care of you!
Perhaps Jesus wouldn’t have been as sarcastic as I am — but I think it would have been fine if He had responded this way! And yet, I admit that at times I’ve been right where Peter was: over-concerned about my own needs and under-concerned about the needs of others.
Peter’s conversation with Jesus says to me that, at this point in his life, Peter had a LOT to learn. His triple denial of Jesus, complete with cursing, was soon to happen.
And yet, he did learn and grow! Soon after the denial, he was preaching to the crowd on the Day of Pentecost, courageously giving them God’s message. And, he apparently continued to serve and sacrifice for God’s people for the rest of his life.
Thought for the day: Lord, how humbling to know that there are times I don’t even realize what it is I need to learn from You, let alone how to go about learning it! Yet, if I continue walking with You like Peter did, I trust You to give me some of Your great treasures of wisdom and love.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.