The Safest Place

"One Year Bible" New Testament Passage John 18:1-24 And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple. Now that disciple was known to the high priest, and went with Jesus into the courtyard of the high priest. John 18:15 (NKJV) Most people know about Peter and how he denied the Lord three times on the night of the betrayal. This was a very dark chapter in Peter's story. People often do not realize that there was another disciple present that night and that disciple DID NOT deny the Lord. This other disciple was none other than John, the beloved disciple. When others pulled away, John drew close. When others lagged behind, he pursued even closer. There is an important lesson here for us. Peter ended up in potential trouble because he followed at a distance. It left him open to the questions of the curious bystander. It led him to compromise. John stayed close. When trouble came, he got closer to Jesus. Therefore, the questions of the crowd were never directed at him. His identity was already settled and he did not have to explain it to those who would attack him. I believe the safest place in the world is the path of radical discipleship. It is the place where we follow the Lord no matter what happens. Though He is always leading in "life and death" experiences (the Cross!), yet we are covered and cared for under the shadow of His Person. It's the safest place.