People Can Change

Acts 4.1-22   "For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard." Acts 4:20 NASB  

Have you ever been to a school reunion? I know they are totally a experience but the last one I went to I found very intriguing. I was amazed at how many people were exactly the same! I started to feel that maybe 10 years was too short a time between reunions. Within 10 years there had been very little difference between most people. However there were just a few people, scattered throughout all the groups, that had been totally transformed by their experiences outside of school. They looked different, they presented themselves differently and they had a confidence that no one would have expected. 

Peter had one of those experiences. At the end of each of the gospels we can read an account of how Peter denies Jesus. Asked three times whether he was with Jesus, he firmly says 'no' and strays away from any association with such a man. Only a month or so later we see this firm and confident disciple risking his life by standing up for his Savior and redeemer.

Peter did a full turnaround from someone who denied Jesus to someone who put their own life on the line to proclaim His name. Because of that, God used Peter in a powerful way. 

This is a great example of God forgiving us of the wrong we do in our past. No matter how strange it may be, even rejecting Jesus as He was stripped, beaten and taken to the cross, it can all be forgiven. God always goes that extra step in grace and confidence in us. Not only does He forgive us from the terrible things we may do, but He also trusts us to do His work here on earth. Our God is an wonderful and loving Lord. 

Prayer

Lord, I thank you for the grace you offer to me every day. May I be faithful with the life you have given me and others. also to be strong like Peter after the resurrection and never stop proclaiming your name. Amen.