Mark 14:66-72

And [Peter] broke down and wept.

Dear friend,
I’d bet most of us know our own weak spots. Despite bravado that may suggest otherwise, we not only know our weak spot(s), we also may live in fear of being exposed. Heaven forbid that the world see us as we are. One coping skill that many of
us may wield in our own defense is “denial.”

Peter, you’re going to deny me three times before a rooster announces daybreak tomorrow.

Peter’s “no” was emphatic. Not me. I wouldn’t do that. You got this wrong.

But Jesus knew his friend well. He understood that Peter meant what he said about not betraying him. But after the crucifixion, followers hid in fear. “Knows Jesus” was being erased quickly from resumes throughout Jerusalem.
—
We live now in fearful times. We live among those who think separation of church and state is not necessary. Some live in fear they’ll be snatched off a street and, without due process, be locked in some hellhole by dinner.

We’re revisiting battles already won but now being questioned again.

We have federally mobilized troops in our cities.

It’s difficult to just keep going when we fear that we’re not going somewhere good.

It’s a test of faith, isn’t it, whatever our faith might be.

I mean, we have responsibilities for our neighbor—which means we can’t just walk on while they are in danger. Or hungry. Or naked. Or unhoused.

Falling to our knees and weeping may seem an appropriate response to an overwhelming need. But it doesn’t erase the need itself, and it doesn’t get our work done.

So, pardon me while I stand up, brush off my knees, dab my tears with Kleenex. I believe I am late for work.