Mark 14. This is a very full chapter, but today I am drawn to consider the comparison between two responses to the demands of discipleship. This contrast portion of the passage begins with Jesus speaking to his disciples.

Jesus said to them, “You will all fall away…” But Peter said to him, “Even though they all fall away, I will not.” And Jesus said to him, “This very night before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” But Peter said, “If I must die with you, I will not deny you.” And they all said the same (14:27-31).

Next, we see Jesus wrestling with God in prayer and submitting himself to God’s will, even though he wished there was another way. “Yet not what I will, but what you will,” he tells God (14:36). Jesus is demonstrating the humility and resolve it takes to truly follow God. He submits himself completely, even when in the face of mocking, false accusations, pain, and death. When Jesus is arrested and then called before the council, he speaks (only once) with boldness and clarity. “I am the Christ”(15:62).

Jesus represents the model disciple who refuses to deny his calling, despite persecution and even death. Jesus’ resolve in the face of suffering is clearly set in contrast to Peter’s cowardly collapse under pressure. (This is another Markan sandwich that goes Peter – Jesus – Peter!)

Jesus stands boldly silent, suffering though innocent. Peter was so sure of himself, so completely confident while singing hymns in the garden with Jesus. But when things got dicey, Peter began to unravel… denying Jesus three times during the night. It’s ironic that the rooster crows – the rooster being a symbol of pride, haughtiness, strutting about with its attitude. And Peter collapses in shame, weeping bitterly at his own failure. Peter is at rock bottom and full of remorse. He failed to stand up under pressure. Peter’s example should remind us of the very real demands of discipleship and following Jesus.

Though the episode is a tragic one for Peter, it is not without hope. We do know that, after the resurrection, Jesus specifically restored Peter by asking him three times if he loved him (John 21:15-19). We know that Peter did not continue in denial but became a leader in the early church. Judas’ betrayal was permanent, but Peter’s denial was temporary. Peter repents and is restored. Thank goodness we serve a God of second chances! He welcomes home all the prodigals who repent and seek to be restored to him.

What about us? Will we also wilt under pressure and fear, and – while attempting to save our own lives and avoid suffering – lose our souls? Or are we willing to take up our own crosses and follow Jesus in humility, through whatever the Lord allows to come our way?