I’m sure you’ve heard the expression, “if looks could kill!”  Most likely at one time or another you’ve been on the receiving end of that look, or you’ve given that look yourself to someone, intentionally or not.  That facial expression that conveys anger or disapproval.  That silent expression that speaks louder than words.

Becky and I are celebrating 44 years of marriage as I pen this week’s pastor desk.  She is truly my helpmate, soulmate, companion and friend. My partner in ministry and ‘travel buddy!”  We’ve been married long enough now to know what we’re each thinking, and yes, we’ve both exchanged ‘that look’ - ‘if looks could kill’, a time or two to one another, but we’ve forgiven and moved on, that’s what true loves does.  We read in the gospel account where Jesus was spending His last moments with his disciples before His arrest and crucifixion.  In one exchange of conversation Peter remarks to Jesus, “even if all are made to stumble because of You, I will never be made to stumble.” Jesus replies to Peter, “assuredly, I say to you that this night, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” (cf. Matt.26: 33-34)   Fast forward, Peter does deny knowing Jesus three times.  In fact the scripture says that at one point during Jesus arrest and questioning by the high priest Peter began to curse and swear, saying, “I do not know the Man!” (Cf. Matt.26:74)

In Luke’s account it says, “…immediately, while he (Peter) was still speaking, the rooster crowed.  And the Lord turned and looked at Peter.” (cf. Lk 22: 61) - “if looks could kill!”  But this look from Jesus was not one of anger or disappointment.  It was not a look of ‘I told you so.”  It was a look of compassion, love and forgiveness.  It was a look that said ‘this is not the end - only the beginning.”  It was a look that said ‘I’m going to make all things new.”

It was a look that said, “Peter, this is not the end of your story!”

We read in the gospel of John (21), where Jesus met up with Peter after His physical resurrection. It was a meeting of compassion, love, restoration and commissioning.

Your story is still be written.  No matter how much you think you may have failed, Jesus looks upon you with compassion, love, restoration and commissioning.  Put your life in Jesus’ hand, and He will write a wonderful story through your life that will make its mark in this life for His glory!

Pastor Rodney