Clay in the Hands

Luke 22:32 has to be one of the most redeeming verses in the New Testament.  Jesus knows he is headed to the cross – he started that journey years and years before.  He also knows that all of his followers, even the closest ones – will fall away before Friday.

Even knowing that he tells Peter, “But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.”  Did you catch it?  “And when you turn back, strengthen . . .”  

Wow!  That is amazing.  Jesus knew Peter, in just a few hours was going to deny him three times, but he looked beyond that, accepted it and said – “when you turn back.”  That is forgiving grace – grace on a mission.

I am continually in wonder about the grace Jesus shows us – shows me!  He knows I am going to fall – but he keeps saying, “OK, get up and lets go through this one more time.”

Amazing!!!