There are many things we could focus our attention on in this section of scripture. One thing that I was reminded of while studying was the differences between Peter and Judas' failures.
Both men denied Christ, were remorseful and both wept. But one led to death and the other to restoration.
Luke 22:31-32 shows how Jesus was praying for Peter, "Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.
Notice, Jesus didn't pray that Peter wouldn't fail, but that his FAITH wouldn't fail. Peter denied Christ, but his faith remained and allowed for repentance and restoration.
Jesus gave Judas many chances to repent and showed great love and mercy to him. Even at the betrayal, Jesus calls him FRIEND! Yet Judas didn't have faith in Christ. He always called Jesus, "Teacher" or "Rabbi", not "Christ" or "Lord." Judas felt sorry for what he had done, but his faith failed and so did he. I believe strongly that Christ wanted Judas to repent and return, but instead, he killed himself.
May we grow our faith, knowing we will fail Christ many times in our lives. Our faith will make us strong and bring us to a place of repentance. So, be in the Word and grow your faith!
"Jesus, you have promised to pray for us too. I know your prayers are for our faith to not fail. We have failed You many times and will again fail you today. But let our faith be strong and help us to repent and return. Once you have restored us, help us to then strengthen the brethren. Amen."
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