by Kala Loptien

Learning from the Best

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link

“But who do you say that I am?”
Matt 16:15, ESV

Have you noticed that Jesus is the ultimate pro at approaching people and asking the right questions? His timing, his delivery, his tone…all perfect. When He’s one on one with sinners, his compassionate invitation brings them to their own convictions. No condemnation or public humiliation. There are so many encounters that come to mind (the woman at the well, Nicodemus, Zacchaeus, the thief on the cross, Saul). Today, though, let’s look specifically at one person.

Matthew is jam-packed with Jesus asking those perfect, leading questions. We see him with his disciples in chapter 16, asking them who people think he is. After hearing a long list of prophets, he makes it personal. “Who do you say that I am?” (emphasis mine) Peter answers perfectly, saying he is the Christ and son of God. Not long after, that same Peter would be asked an all-important question, three different times following Jesus’ arrest. When I read this portion of scripture, I’m overcome with emotion and a little bit of anger. I’ve come to recognize why. I’ve denied Jesus by my thoughts, words and actions…more than three times. I’m upset and sad for Peter. I’m upset and sad for myself. But, the awesome reality is that Jesus knows Peter’s heart, and He knows ours. We are given a beautiful, intentional opportunity for repentance when our Lord asks us the important question He asked Peter: “Do you love me?” With a broken and contrite heart, we lay it all before Him and accept His amazing grace. In turn, we walk differently; we talk with a renewed perspective; we live a life worthy of the ultimate calling. This is how Peter spent the rest of his life.

I pray we continue to seek and find answers to these questions. I also pray we seek His guidance; whether it’s our turn to ask the hard questions, or our turn to extend grace. Stay tuned. We’ll examine more Jesus encounters in future posts.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado