PPic: Oberon Golf Course - Links Pro Am 2006

PGA Chaplain Bible Studies

Study 26 July 14th to July 20th 2008.
Reading – John Chapter Ch18: verses 12 to 27.

“Under The Spotlight!”

Ás Simon Peter stood warming himself, he was asked, “Surely you are not another of his disciples?” He denied it saying,” Ï am not.”One of the priest’s servants, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, challenged him, “Didn’t I see you with him in the olive grove?”Again Peter denied it, and at that moment a cock began to crow.”
 John Chapter 18: verses 25 to 27. (New InternationalVersion).

The most enjoyable part in sport is not so much when you win, but when you play the best you can. There are times probably when we all have had a win at all costs kind of attitude, and when we win, it is not as good as we think. I can think of many memorable times in sport when the contest was so close whether you win or lose no longer mattered. In a recent Masters pennant match both my opponent and I said after the game it was the best match we had played and been involved in. He won the last hole for a draw, and we both left the course tired but content.
I always think one of the characteristics of a great champion is they win most of the close encounters under the spotlight. One only has to think of Tiger Woods in golf and the emerging Nadal in Tennis. On the other side, how disappointing it is when we fail.

While Jesus’ trial is a different dimension to sport, they have some similar features. You can see the different motives and hearts of the people involved when they come under the spotlight. It is worthy of our attention to look at the trial of Jesus from the perspective of those involved. In a real sense everyone in the account was on trial and under the spotlight with Jesus, and when things get tough, often our true character emerges.

This week we look at Peter, who denies knowing Jesus when questioned by onlookers.

The first thing that needs to be said about Peter is he is the bravest of all the disciples. This is consistent with his character portrayed throughout Jesus’ life as a risk taker, one who speaks up and one that takes on the challenges that he faces. He even spoke up earlier in the night saying he would never deny Jesus when he spoke of his impending trial and drew a sword willing to fight when Jesus was arrested.
He was only one of 2 disciples that followed Jesus after he was arrested and taken to the Jewish courts for questioning.

When put under pressure 3 times by onlookers, Peter denies knowing Jesus. No doubt Peter feared for his life, and when under the spotlight in this case folded. Peter will later regret this denial, however for Jesus it was not a surprise.

It is always disappointing when we fail under the spotlight whether in sport or life. Jesus will in time restore Peter and acknowledge his role as the leader of the church after Jesus leaves.

Peter reminds me of when we truly try our best at something and come up short. However in the end, it is not a matter of how good we may be, but that Jesus under the spotlight never faltered.

Prayer
Lord, we are sorry when we fail under the spotlight. Thank you that your mercy is readily available when we seek your forgiveness. Amen.

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