Originally a fisherman named Simon, he was given the name Peter (meaning "rock") by Jesus, who declared Peter the foundation upon which His church would be built. Born Shimon bar Yonah in Bethsaida, Galilee. He worked as a fisherman with his brother Andrew before becoming one of the Twelve Apostles. and was regarded as the outspoken spokesperson for the disciples. Tradition dictates he was martyred in Rome under Emperor Nero between 64 and 68 AD. Believing he was unworthy to die in the exact same manner as Jesus, Peter requested to be crucified upside down. Peter's famous moment of doubt occurred when he walked on water but began to sink. He doubted because he took his eyes off Jesus and shifted his focus to the fierce winds and the dangerous waves around him, allowing fear to briefly overwhelm his faith.

 

Does this story of Peter's moment of doubt sound familiar? Remember he also denied knowing Jesus three times at the most crucial and dangerous time of Christ's life. Peter's human frailty sounds familiar right? As much as we pray, plan, and stand in faith, there are times when we take our eyes away from God, forget His promise, forget His mercy, forget His grace then all tragedy and mayhem prevails. But are there times when fear is understandable over faith? Are there circumstances that can be so severe, so tragic, so overwhelming that it becomes impossible to lean on Jesus and His promises? No.

 

I thank God everyday that He is so merciful and understanding of human nature. My faith in redemption was restored many decades ago as I read Jesus prior to the crucifixion found himself alone in the Garden of Gethsemane, draped in fear, asking the Father if possible to take away the cup of sacrifice. And like many of us today, through faith he found his courage to persevere, to understand that no matter the circumstances, God hears us, and He is with us. Carrying us through the most turbulent, catastrophic, unpredictable, and frightening days.

 

It’s not easy to follow our Lord. There will be days when each of us will wonder where His miraculous hand could be in our moments of trial and despair. And like Peter, we may cast our eyes away, we may fail at our most urgent call for faith and strength, but our faith and love for Christ is sincere, and our God knows this. He knows even when you, I, and even Peter can forget. Stay strong in faith Believers, know and believe that through Christ help is on the way.

 

Many blessings...

 

S.K. Caraway, Director

thesonyakarolfoundation.org

 

Proverbs 3:5-6 

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

 

Joshua 1:9

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”