Again Peter denied it, and at that moment a rooster began to crow. John 18:27 (Matthew 26:57-27:1, Mark 14:53-15:1, Luke 22:54-71, John 18:12-27)
Following Jesus’ arrest, He was taken to Annas the High Priest to make an accounting before the Jewish court. At this time, Annas had no real authority, but had great sway among the Jewish populous. His opinion would be important as Caiaphus and The Council moved forward to convict Jesus of Blasphemy. The Council is comparable to the Supreme Court and is made up of 71 elders, chief priests and scribes. The interrogations were never meant to be truth seeking endeavors, but justification for personal agendas and hatred.
Peter had a personal struggle with loyalty when his own life was put in jeopardy. He vehemently, using profanity, denies ever knowing Jesus. When the rooster crowed he was grieved and ashamed, but his weakness soon became a bravery the world has rarely seen. In contrast, Judas’ self-seeking cowardice ended in self-inflicted demise. Judas’ life ended when his own control failed and he did not look any further.
To those of us who live under the hope of civil and social justice, it is incomprehensible that Jesus did not set wrongs to right on this night. But He trusted in a greater purpose, God’s plan to once again bring order out of chaos. Peter faced his worst self and found it wasn’t who he longed to be. He clung to hope and found all He ever needed, Mercy and Grace.
Have a Great Day!
Gretchen