Following Jesus Afar Off — Part 1

But Peter followed him afar off unto the high priest’s palace, and went in, and sat with the servants, to see the end — Matthew 26:58.

Have you ever messed up big time as a Christian? And when you look back, you are like; “What! Did I actually do that?”

Yes, you are not alone. Peter, a disciple and apostle of Christ did too.

I messed up!

A few years ago, I had a fiesty argument with an acquaintance. I felt I was right and he wasn’t. The situation escalated. Seriously, it got really noisy. It took the efforts of third parties to stop the scuffle.

Soon afterwards, I remembered I had to attend bible study same day. I know, it would have been better to stay at home and avoid the prying and mocking eyes of the eyewitness of my earlier drama.

Should I attend the bible study with my bible wrapped under a newspaper? At least no one will suspect I  was heading to church. Or should I completely avoid church and stay home?

No. I attended the bible study that evening, but without my bible. My thought? So that no one knows where I am going.

I knew I had messed up that day. But I was convinced I’d do more damage to my soul if I stayed home and refused to attend church, where I could recover my spiritual sanctity. Later, I made my peace with God and those I offended.

Two sins, two paths and two life choices

Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus and hung himself. He messed up. He was remorseful. But he chose the path of greater damage and damnation by committing suicide.

Simon Peter denied the Lord vehemently with cursing. But he later repented in deep sorrow and repentance. He was forgiven and restored.

Both men sinned. Both men followed two separate paths. Both men made different life choices. The end of their lives could not be more contrasting.

Have your ever messed up in your walk with Jesus? Have you ever followed Jesus from afar off? How did you handle it after realizing your mistakes? Share your experience in the comment box.

More about Michael Chukwu

Michael is a student of Applied Computer Science at the University of Duisburg-Essen, Germany. He is a youth leader with a passion for seeing young people grow and glow where they are planted. You can connect with him on Facebook and Twitter. You can also check out his Youth Aglow Facebook Page.