Many of Jesus' disciples were abandoning Him because of His abhorrent command to eat His flesh and drink His blood (Jn 6:52-66). Jesus asked His apostles whether they were going to do the same. Peter responded: "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life" (Jn 6:68).

After Peter vehemently promised Jesus that he would never deny Him, Peter denied Christ three times (Lk 22:33-34, 57ff). When Peter was convicted of his sins, "he went out and wept bitterly" (Lk 22:62). Peter could have despaired as Judas did. However, Peter repented.

Peter could have ended up in the garbage heap of history and in the fires of hell. But he decided to live for Jesus. He became the first leader of the Church. The Lord worked great signs and wonders through Peter. He healed a man lame from birth (Acts 3:7) and the paralyzed Aeneas (Acts 9:34). "The people carried the sick into the streets and laid them on cots and mattresses, so that when Peter passed by at least his shadow might fall on one or another of them. Crowds from the towns around Jerusalem would gather, too, bringing their sick and those who were troubled by unclean spirits, all of whom were cured" (Acts 5:15-16). Peter even raised Tabitha (Dorcas) from the dead (Acts 9:40).

Jesus is asking you whether you are going to be His disciple or leave Him. He is asking whether you are going to repent and come back to Him. Your decision is the most important decision of your life. Choose Jesus.

Nihil Obstat:  Reverend Ralph J. Lawrence, December 9, 2000

Imprimatur:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, December 12, 2000