Until That Day

Until That Day
by Richard Maffeo

"But Peter said, “Man, I do not know what you are talking about.” Immediately, while he was still speaking, a rooster crowed. 61 The Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how He had told him, “Before a rooster crows today, you will deny Me three times.” And he went out and wept bitterly." (Luke 22:60-62)

I have often tried to imagine the message in Jesus’ eyes when He looked at Peter. Whatever it was, Peter melted with remorse.

I have also tried to imagine the scene at the Judgment when the Lord turns to look at the many judges, and attorneys, and politicians who, for the sake of power and privilege and money, called light dark and dark light, and trampled innocence under their feet.

I have also many times tried to imagine the scene at the Judgment when the Lord turns to look at the many pastors, bishops, priests, teachers, and deacons who, for the sake of power and privilege and money, denied God's unchangeable truths. What will His look be like for them who twisted His word and the historic teaching of His Church until it was no longer recognizable to any of the prophets, apostles, and saints seated with Christ in the heavenly places?

I have also many times tried to imagine the scene at the Judgment when the Lord looks at the many who called themselves "lay Christians" but who, for the sake of power and privilege and money chose their own broad path to the Lord's narrow gate, who scoffed at the idea of a righteous Judge to whom we must all give an account.

Peter repented of His sin and denial. But when the Lord looks at those who corrupted His truth during their time on earth, they will have no opportunity for repentance – though they will have plenty of time for remorse. And they shall weep bitterly for the eternal judgment awaiting them.

Let us pray they will not delay their repentance and remorse until that day.