A LOOK OF COMPASSION

We have all been given “looks”. Looks that span from intense affection all the way to intense rage.

One of the most moving looks is a look that says, “I know you have messed up, but I love you and forgive you.”

Luke 22:61And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.

What a gut wrenching look that must have been. Peter bravely declaring, “I’ll die with you!” Now cowarding away and denying his Master.

I wonder what He saw when their eyes locked on each other? I wonder if Peter had flashbacks of Christs’ teachings or of the miracles? Maybe he heard in his mind the echo of Christ’s words as He said, “I came to seek and save that which is lost.” Perhaps he remembered when Christ blessed 5 loaves of bread and two fish; bringing about the feeding of 5,000+ people. I wonder if he remembered the power of being in the mount of transfiguration or when Christ told Lazarus to, “Come forth!”

I don’t know what went through Peter’s mind, but what I do know is that what he saw caused him to remember and to weep bitterly.

I believe what He saw was unconditional love. I believe what he saw was the way Christ saw him at that moment. I believe he saw what Christ knew he could be if he’d repent and be saved. I believe he saw the look that said, “You are why I’m giving my life willingly.” I believe at that moment, Peter saw the past, present, future, and how they all culminated for this moment right here and now.

The Messiah, the savior if the world was going to die for all mankind. He would take the sins of the past, present, and future upon His shoulders and cover them with every ounce of His blood.

And just to show Peter that His love was indeed unconditional. Christ told the women, “tell my disciples AND PETER.” Christ knew what Peter was feeling and wanted him to know that He still loved him and would forgive him.

What one look can convey! That look has been presented to each of us. My hope is that we all turn out the way Peter did…changed.