But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going before you to Galilee.
Mark 16:7a
Lord, I thank You for my “and Peter” moments. How many times have I felt like I was just a tagalong, not fitting in, left out because of mistakes I have made. Because of the guilt and shame that comes soon after the revelation of my sin either publicly or privately in my prayer closet, there overwhelms me this feeling of unworthiness, my conscience telling my spirit that You do not and cannot love me.
It is in those darkest of moments that the Holy Spirit reminds me that You are not in the tomb. You have risen. And the message goes out declaring to Your disciples, and especially those like me, that You are looking to meet us. And like Peter, when I hear about the opportunity to reconcile with You I rush to the last place where I saw You, my heart longing to make right the wrongs I have done. And somewhere between those points You meet me where I am and restore me.
Whew! My soul finds such great comfort and joy in this truth: You died for sinners just like me. And through Your love, nothing can separate me from You. You are forever calling me home. When I wander off, You don’t leave me to my own devices, but instead continually speak to my soul, reminding me of Your love and that there is always rest for me in Your presence.
Today Lord, I thank You for my “and Peter” moments. Though I feel isolated, alone and separated from You, I know that I am never more than a heart’s cry away. As the one outside of the ninety-nine, my soul finds comfort in knowing that You, the Good Shepherd, will always go to find me! Help me not to wander from Your presence. Continue to use Your staff to keep me near. I love You Jesus. I so love You! Thank You for loving me first. Amen.