Life was difficult for the children of the small nation of Israel as they struggled and suffered under the heavy hand of Roman rule. Due to this intense oppression from the Roman Empire, frequent riots and uprising laced daily life. As a result, many influential groups had come into prominence: the Pharisees, who were the religious conservatives; the Sadducees, who were more liberal and preferred to work together with the Romans; and the Zealots, who violently opposed Rome, and were basically terrorists. Life was tough for God’s people, but it was also an exciting time to be alive, for all in Israel were expectantly awaiting the coming of their salvation, their Messiah.
One man living during this chaotic time would rise up to become one of the most influential characters in the history of Christianity. Peter, that outspoken, headstrong fisherman would be called of Christ to sow the seeds of the gospel throughout the early churches. A leader by nature, Peter had his share of weaknesses. He could be inconsistent, displaying the faith to walk on water, but the fear that would cause him to sink beneath the waves; he would declare fierce allegiance to his Master, then deny Him three times; he would bring the gospel to the Gentile world, then later refuse to eat with them. The weakness of his flesh was on full display as he would sleep in the garden instead of praying, waking up in time to chop off a servant’s ear in anger. And this disciple of Christ often spoke rashly before applying a thorough thought process to a situation.
But God looked past the weaknesses and saw the great potential in this excited, robust, committed servant. Peter repented when he erred, learned from his mistakes, and grew “in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” He would be a “witness of the sufferings of Christ,” seeing firsthand the anguish others inflicted on Jesus, while realizing the suffering his own denials had caused his Friend. And in his closing letters, he would encourage those followers coming behind him to continue in steadfast faith and devotion to the Savior.
Peter, a stone, our little grandson, can be headstrong and determined, as are most first-borns, yet always adventurous and enthusiastic. He has deep within himself the same potential as his namesake. May he be the leader that the Savior can use richly for His purpose, may he always be willing to learn, displaying the same fortitude, courage, and vigilance found in that apostle of old. And may God use that him to encourage and to lead others to his Friend. May that little stone find his fulfillment in the Rock of Ages.
II Samuel 22:32 For who is God, save the LORD?: and who is a rock, save our God?
Praise God for the Rock of our salvation!