This is an interesting exchange here. As I imagine these final hours, Jesus is clear on what it is to happen. Prophecy is to be fulfilled, and he has the lead role, so to speak. His followers and closest friends are a bit clueless, yet have seen so much already.
I thought it was interesting that Peter is singled out. Jesus tells us here that Satan has wanted to sift them ALL out. We know Judas as already fallen prey to Satan. Jesus has pled for Peter. It is here that Jesus tells Peter to be the leader to help the others get back on track. Yet, he warns Peter that he’ll fall and fail before he overcomes and returns to his senses. You can imagine how crazy Peter must have thought Jesus was at the thought of what he was saying.
Peter declares, “Lord, I am ready to go to prison with you, and even to die with you.” Peter believes what he is saying. He has no idea that in just a few hours he will do exactly what Jesus predicts, fall prey to Satan. If even Jesus’ closest follower can be overtaken, does it not make sense we are also likely to fall victim to Satan’s plotting? When we are working for the kingdom and proclaiming our allegiance to Jesus, we put a target on our backs.
We must stand firm and trust in Jesus at all times. We need to be bold and tell Satan to be gone! We need to literally tell him to be gone! He is lurking and crafty. I’ve said it before because it is so true.
Jesus warns the whole group of them, as well. He realizes they will not be safe because of their association with him. They recall how they obeyed when he sent them out to preach, taking nothing with them. That worked out well. Now, Jesus is telling them to take their belongings, including protection, the swords.
For us, we need to arm ourselves with the word of God as our protection. Satan knows Scripture, too, so we will need it to outwit him and be free of his bondage. We were made to love and be loved. Satan disrupts that whenever he can. He puts doubts in our heads. He wedges differences between people. He stirs up evil in so many people left unaware, like Peter and Judas.
So how are you arming yourself? Do you have the word of God in your heart and mind protecting you?
Let’s pray. Father God, I thank you for your great love for me. It goes beyond my understanding how you can be so involved in your creation. Help us to realize that Satan is also alive and well and ready to pounce on a moment’s notice. Use me to help others to see the danger that lurks. No one is immune. I know you never leave us, may I feel you today. Help me walk with confidence as I help others to know you and reach their highest potential, your desire for them. Give me courage. Protect my heart and mind today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
