Deacon Brigid Waszczak

“Simon, stay on your toes. Satan has tried his best to separate all of you from me, like chaff from wheat. Simon, I’ve prayed for you in particular that you not give in or give out. When you have come through the time of testing, turn to your companions and give them a fresh start.”

Peter said, “Master, I’m ready for anything with you. I’d go to jail for you. I’d die for you!”

Jesus said, “I’m sorry to have to tell you this, Peter, but before the rooster crows you will have three times denied that you know me.”
—Luke 22:31-34, The Message

Sisters and Brothers,

Jesus warning Peter leaps out in this scripture passage. A familiar scene: Peter’s bold response and our knowing his subsequent fulfillment of that prophesy in denying knowing Jesus three times.

Focusing on Peter’s impending indignity however, obscures that Jesus prayed for Peter and expected him to “come through the time of testing” with his faith intact. Perhaps Peter missed this fact, as well.

I had five aunts who were nuns. (Big Catholic families on both sides) I mentioned this to a friend whose response was, “Oh! Think of all the prayers offered for you!” I hadn’t.

I had never imagined those aunts praying for me. But, of course, they did. Their prayers proceeded me, protected me, and safeguarded me without my even realizing it… much like Jesus’ prayers for Peter.

Jesus also instructed Peter that once he’d gotten over the embarrassment of denial and forgiven himself, he should be generous in forgiving any missteps by the other disciples. (We may have overlooked that piece of advice in this scripture, too.)

Jesus himself helped Peter overcome his humiliation. Here, he advocated for Peter to do the same for his companions, to “give them a fresh start.”

I pray for my family all the time. They probably don’t even realize that. Not that I expect them to.

I also stumble and must forgive myself often. Following Jesus’ admonition and remembering God forgives me helps me extend forgiveness to others.

For whom do you pray who probably doesn’t realize your prayers are offered for them? Who do you forgive who also doesn’t know you’ve done so?

Blessings,

—Deacon Brigid