Repentance – Grace That Meets Us at Our Lowest (365/33)
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Failure has a way of replaying itself in our minds. Moments we wish we could undo, words we wish we had never said, courage we were sure we had—until we didn’t. Even after we’ve asked for forgiveness, shame and guilt linger, trying to convince us that we are defined by our worst moment.
Peter knew this weight well. In Luke 22:54–62, the gospel writer records that after Peter denies Jesus three times, the rooster crows and “the Lord turned and looked at Peter.” A look that breaks him. Peter goes out and weeps bitterly (v61-62). His tears are honest, but they are not the end of the story. Jesus restores him.
The risen Jesus meets Peter again (John 21:15-17). Three times Jesus asks, “Do you love Me?”—mirroring Peter’s three denials. Jesus does not rehearse Peter’s failure; He entrusts him with responsibility: “Feed My sheep.” Jesus invites him to step out of shame and back into calling.
God can still work through us, even after failure. A hardened heart resists grace by clinging to self-condemnation. True humility accepts forgiveness and allows God to rewrite the story. Peter’s life after restoration is marked not by fear, but by boldness rooted in grace.
Pause and Ponder
What does Jesus’ response to Peter reveal about God’s heart toward those who fail?
Where might I be holding onto shame even after confessing and repenting?
How might embracing God’s grace free me to live and serve with peace?
Grace does not deny the seriousness of sin—but it refuses to let sin have the final word. When we allow Jesus to meet us in our failure, shame loosens its grip, and healing begins.
Lord Jesus, help me receive Your forgiveness fully and release the shame that keeps me from receiving Your restoring grace. Amen.
Extended reading: Luke 22:54-62
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