Go Tell Peter

Perhaps the most notable of Jesus’ resurrection appearances is when He met Simon Peter. We all know how Peter denied and deserted the Lord. Peter was devastated by his own unfaithfulness; and he really needed encouragement.

The last sight Peter had of his Lord was as Jesus was taken away for trial. Poor Peter, his world came crashing in on him. He had so many regrets. He was never even able to tell the Lord he was sorry.

But the resurrection of Jesus changed all of that. Peter heard the incredible message, ” ‘But go, tell His disciples—and Peter—that He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him, as He said to you’ ” (Mark 16:7).

Isn’t that amazing? Here is the Lord directly responding to the doubts, fears, and regrets of one of His followers. The message was not, “Go tell the disciples and James He is risen.” Or, “Go tell the disciples and John He is risen.” Or, ‘Tell the disciples and Matthew He is risen.” No, it was, “Tell the disciples and Peter He is risen.”

More than the rest of the disciples, Peter needed reassurance. His risen Lord knew that, and knew how to restore his faith.