But I have prayed for you that your own faith may not fail; and you, when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers. – Luke 22:32 (NRSV)

If Jesus demonstrated anything while He walked the earth, it’s that He is a cheerleader of people. He is an advocate, especially for the sinners and the unrighteous. When Peter passionately declared that he would die for Jesus, Jesus tells Peter that he would, in actual fact, deny Jesus before the night was out. He knew fear would overtake Peter in the hours to come, but instead of rebuking him, Jesus encourages Peter to be strong, to get back up and strengthen those around him. Instead of disappointment, Jesus prays for him. Jesus also prays for you. Jesus isn’t surprised when you mess up, or when you’re overcome by doubts, because He already knew it would happen. Instead, He prays for you to get back up and keep going. He walks with you, cheering you on to the end.

Prayer

Jesus, thank you for being our advocate and for never giving up on us. We ask, Lord, that You would strengthen our faith and help us to get back up when we fall. Amen