Luke 22:59 About an hour later another asserted, “Certainly this fellow was with him, for he is a Galilean.”
Luke’s account is the only one that includes Jesus turning and looking at Peter after the third denial. He had already been beaten some at this point, so he would have been bloody and bruised. I wonder what Peter saw in that gaze. I wonder what Jesus intended.
Luke 22:60 Peter replied, “Man, I don’t know what you’re talking about!” Just as he was speaking, the rooster crowed.
Jesus knew Peter would deny Him. He also knew he would turn back, and Jesus told him that when he did, to strengthen his brothers. Peter probably felt condemnation in that look, but Jesus’s words and actions all point to compassion and mercy instead.
Luke 22:61 The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: “Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times.”
Lord, We have such grand intentions at times, though often we fail miserably in the doing. Thank You for Your compassion and mercy. Help us to forgive ourselves and others as You forgive us. Amen.
Luke 22:62 And he went outside and wept bitterly.
Have a blessed day.