In isolation this scene, like any other sin, is heartbreaking. We can look back at Peter's promises to never deny Jesus. We can look back at all the warnings Jesus gave. We can look back at so many things, but in the moment, Peter fails, and his failure is written across the pages of humanity.
What's beautiful, however, is that Peter's failure doesn't get the last word. Peter's failure is terrible, but this isn't where the story ends. Jesus knew Peter would fail, and Jesus called him anyway. Jesus knew Peter would fail, and Jesus sends Peter out afterwards anyway. How much more able is Peter to tell people about a God who graciously forgives even the most grievous failure? How much more in awe is Peter of a God who loves unconditionally?
Jesus knew you would fail, and created you just the same. Jesus knew you would fail, and God loves you and redeems you just the same. Jesus calls you and sends you, for your sin, no matter what it may be, isn't the end of the story. Don't go convinced you've found a dead end -- Jesus brings life out of death, and can bring hope out of failure.
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