Our text today is John 1:40-42:
“Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard John’s testimony and followed Jesus. He first found his brother Simon and told him, ‘We have found the Messiah’ (which is translated as Christ). And he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, ‘You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas’ (which is translated as Peter).”
When Simon first met Jesus, he received a new name: Peter, meaning “rock.” Jesus saw strength and stability in Peter, even though Peter didn’t always see it in himself. That’s how Jesus sees us too—He knows the good we may not yet recognize.
Before following Jesus, Peter was a fisherman, working alongside his brother Andrew. When Jesus called him, Peter left his nets behind to become a “fisher of men.”
Peter was among the first disciples chosen by Jesus. Once, when Jesus walked on water, Peter asked to join Him. Stepping out of the boat, Peter walked on water too—until he took his eyes off Jesus and noticed the waves. As he began to sink, Peter cried out, “Lord, save me!” Jesus immediately reached out and saved him. Jesus was right on time, as He always is.
Despite his love for Jesus, Peter made mistakes. On the night Jesus was arrested, Peter denied knowing Him three times. Later, filled with regret, Peter was heartbroken. After His resurrection, Jesus forgave Peter and gave him another chance.
Peter went on to boldly preach about Jesus. His life reminds us that God can use imperfect people to do extraordinary things.
I’m Lonnie Davis, and these are thoughts worth thinking.