Inspiring Example

of the Apostle Peter.  I identify with him a lot.  I like to think of him as the "wear your heart on your sleeve" apostle.  He was a vocal and passionate follower of Jesus and this sometimes led to missteps that taught him valuable lessons.  Here are some of my favorite Peter moments:

• He walked on water like Jesus.  Then he took his eyes off Jesus and he started to sink.  The same happens to me when I take my eyes off Jesus.
• When Jesus asked who do you say I am?  Without hesitation, Peter said, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God!"  I have no doubt that he meant it and said it enthusiastically.
• He actually rebuked Jesus!  More than once.  That takes some guts don't you think?
• He was present at the transfiguration.  To witness such a miracle, what a blessing.
• He asked the quintessential question on forgiveness?  It's not my favorite thing to do but Scripture says that if we expect forgiveness from God, we have to extend forgiveness ourselves (70 x 7).  I do have to say that I always feel better when I do forgive.
• Then he made his brash vow to the Lord, “Though they all fall away because of you, I will never fall away,” and  “Even if I must die with you, I will not deny you!” This one breaks my heart because I empathize with Peter.  I pray that I may never deny Him and should I ever be in that situation, I pray He gives me courage and strength.
• He fell asleep when Jesus was praying in the garden.  I have great intentions in wanting to serve Christ with everything I have but like Peter, I disappoint Him often.
• He cut off an ear of the high priest's servant.  One of those brash moments when you do something you have to repent of later.
• He denied Christ.  I just feel his heartbreak when the rooster crowed.
• He ran to the tomb and went in the tomb to see that Jesus wasn't there.  I like Peter tend to believe things that I can see for myself.  Scripture says though, "...Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
• He meets Jesus at the beginning of his earthly ministry and after the resurrection in the same way - fishing!  A full circle journey.
• He is restored.  Even though he messed up Jesus gave him more than one chance.  Thank goodness He does the same for us.
• From Pentecost on he served the kingdom well.  He still messed up but he journeyed on until his death which tradition says was a crucifixion on an upside down cross.

I want to serve God passionately like Peter.  How about you?