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A PASSOVER PRAYER
Rod Shimabukuro“Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. 32But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” Luke 22:31-32
The Last Passover Supper was no “going away, see you in the future” kind of party. This powerfully tense scene involves human conflict and God’s plan through Jesus. The disciples still do not grasp the totality of God’s ways as His Son bears His heart before His sacrificial death.
There’s a betrayer revealed, disciples positioning themselves for greatness and bold claims to die for God’s cause. In verses 31-32, Jesus, to me reveals His divinity once again to Peter. In the face of coming hostility, while being surrounded with such “common-human” disciples, Jesus predicts Peter’s failure and redemption.
Implied is a potential failure of faith, through trials brought on by Satan. God’s intervention through His (Jesus’) prayer brings forgiveness and a strengthened, renewed relationship with God. Peter failed in witness, compromising Godly convictions, but he did not fail in faith.
Knowing that God prays for us - through Jesus and the Spirit, is our victory. God is my Victory Mediator, High Priest - Intercessor by the Holy Spirit (Ro. 8, John 17, Heb. 7:22-25, 1 Tim. 2:5)
- While I may fail in confession, timidity, hypocrisy, pride, etc…. I will not fail in faith - through the prayers and promises of God. There does seem to be people who are failing in faith - but God knows their outcome.
- As for me, my confidence, trust in His Person, plans and ways, lead me to living in a secure relationship through the Godhead! I don’t fret about failing in faith. My relationship is based on His work, ways, promises - not mine. My efforts, “works of” faith will not earn me a BETTER seat, position, favor…with God.
So now what Lord?
Go Rod, strengthen others, encouraging, teaching and praying for their faith.
Leave the outcomes to Me, says the Lord. I’ve called you to strengthen the body of Christ, encouraging, exhorting and teaching My Word. I’ve called you to pray…yes more. I’ve positioned you to be dependent on Me. Trust in who I am and what I can do. You do your part - as I lead you. Listen to the musings of your heart, for I’ve given you My heart. I Love you, my son. I’ve called you to be with Me, and do my will…not the other way around.
Oh God! Thank you! I Love You and thank You for the faith You’ve given me, to grow me to be with you. Please help me to now, do Your will. WOW GOD… I LOVE YOU!
