He appointed the twelve: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter). (Mark 3:16)
Peter’s life was radically impacted by Jesus. He turned in a new direction and faced new challenges. At birth, he was named Simon. Jesus changed his name to
Peter which means ‘rock’. Did it match his behaviour? Jesus chose imperfect disciples, people who willingly had their hearts and lives changed by Him. So Simon the fisherman became Peter, the rock, through the work of Jesus in his life. Peter became the inspired leader and solid support of the first Christians in Jerusalem.
To get ahead in today’s world you must prove you are exceptional. Jesus, however, takes us as we are and forms us to be the people He wants us to be.
Maybe you wonder what Jesus sees in you. He sees the person you will become as He forms you by His love, grace, forgiveness and teaching. It is His power that makes weak, imperfect beings messengers of the good news of the gospel.
Simon means ‘the listener’. As he listened to Jesus, Peter became a ‘rock’, a giant in the early church.
How has Jesus changed your life? Thank Him today for what He has done for you. Pray that He will continue to refine you.
Image by Lumo Project Films – www.lumoproject.com.