Life is a constant struggle between good and evil within us.  We take one or two steps forward, and then fall back again, only to allow the Lord to pick us up to renew the process within us. It’s so easy to get lost in the world of “good intentions” – we want to listen to the voice of God; we want to take steps that will bring us long-lasting happiness and a sense of peace within us.  But there are so many voices out there that call for our attention and response.

        Peter was by no means the first — nor the last — person who struggled to accept God’s call because he viewed things in human terms. The call to discipleship, which Peter — and we — experience  is both a privilege and a challenge.  

 

        The privilege rests in the disciple’s close relationship with a loving God.  Imagine the special favor of being known as a child of God;  imagine  the grace of learning what is on Jesus’ heart as he speaks to you.  What could be a greater honor?

 

        The challenge rests on the road to such a relationship with God.  There are times when a disciple’s limited human wisdom is confronted by the mystery of divine wisdom.  God wants to expand our vision and give us a broader view of the way he works, but this expansion can sometimes be painful.   Yet, just as a child sometimes struggles to learn the wiser path from his or her parents, so too a disciple will gain wisdom as he or she allows God to form a new heart within them.

 

        Despite his initial inability to grasp God’s ways, Peter persisted in obedience, and in the end, he became a shining beacon reflecting the glory of God.  The joy and strength God gave him  more than compensated for the cost of his discipleship.  By allowing God to work in our hearts, we too can open a pathway for God to form us as disciples — beloved friends of Jesus Christ.

 

        Don’t be afraid;  don’t back down;  the experience of become one with God transforms us into everlasting life.