John 18:12-18

John 18:12-18 
English Standard Version (ESV)

  Peter is a study in contrasts.  In one moment, he's Peter, striding powerfully on the waves.  In another, he is rebuked by Jesus.  One moment, he's here, denying even knowing Jesus when accused by a servant girl, while in another, he's the rock upon whom Jesus will build his church.  Peter swings from one emotional moment to the next, always close to Jesus, but sometimes drawing nearer while at others falling farther. 
  We are all Peter in some ways.  There are times when we're quieting the competing voices of the heart, listening to the voice of the Spirit guiding us closer to God, and in other times, we are so busy or chaotic or conflicted that we may as well be running from God.  Life is challenging.  Discipleship is challenging -- it's often like a pendulum, swinging back and forth, every now and again perfectly balanced before careening off to one side or the other.
  The important thing is to remember that we are always anchored to God.  While life can swing from one emotional state to the other, God is always near, and we are always beloved, treasured, redeemed and saved.  Our failures, our sins, our weaknesses and betrayals and denials do not invalidate us for service or distance us from God.  They make us feel separated from God, but we are not distant from our Savior.  God is the one who enters into our brokenness and brings light to the darkness.  While we may feel as though we are standing alone, we are never abandoned, and Christ is always pulling us closer.