When Jesus was getting prepared to leave his disciples to go to the cross he said lots of important and fascinating things to them. I’ve been reading about it in Luke where he looks at these guys and says he will give them the kingdom, just as the Father has given him the kingdom (Luke 22:29).
He is giving us the kingdom. That’s awesome.
But right after he says this, he looks at Simon Peter and thinks about what is coming—a denial, a challenge. (Read about it in Luke 22:54-62). Satan wants to sift all of them, but Jesus says to Simon, “But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers” (v32).
Notice this: Jesus knew that Simon Peter would deny him, yet he gave him the kingdom anyway. He knew failure was coming, yet he trusted Peter with responsibility.
The failure didn’t disqualify Peter.
Jesus saw it coming, and took extra steps to reconcile Peter after the resurrection when the angel said, “But go, tell his disciples and Peter…” (Mark 16:7 NIV). He wanted Peter to know that he was still included. His failure didn’t disqualify him.
Some of us need to hear this simple message.
God doesn’t choose us because we won’t screw things up. Our screw ups don’t disqualify us, just like our good actions don’t make us any more worthy.
Those of us who have failed time and time again can either hide from God or recognize his great mercy and patience toward us. He is still there, looking to reconcile us to himself.
Then he invites us to strengthen our brothers. Out of the forgiveness that comes from God we can then go encourage others. Knowing our own great failures helps us have empathy for others in their struggles. We know what it’s like to be there. But we don’t have to stay there. We don’t live in the failures.
Because of Jesus, we live in victory and freedom. Qualified, because of Jesus.
From Peter's Blog: Live in the Impossible