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!!!
Clay in the Hands 