31-32 “Simon, stay on your toes. Satan has tried his best to separate all of you from me, like chaff from wheat. Simon, I’ve prayed for you in particular that you not give in or give out. When you have come through the time of testing, turn to your companions and give them a fresh start.”
33 Peter said, “Master, I’m ready for anything with you. I’d go to jail for you. I’d die for you!”
34 Jesus said, “I’m sorry to have to tell you this, Peter, but before the rooster crows you will have three times denied that you know me.”
35 Then Jesus said, “When I sent you out and told you to travel light, to take only the bare necessities, did you get along all right?”
“Certainly,” they said, “we got along just fine.”
36-37 He said, “This is different. Get ready for trouble. Look to what you’ll need; there are difficult times ahead. Pawn your coat and get a sword. What was written in Scripture, ‘He was lumped in with the criminals,’ gets its final meaning in me. Everything written about me is now coming to a conclusion.”
38 They said, “Look, Master, two swords!”
But he said, “Enough of that; no more sword talk!”
Jesus warned his disciples the forthcoming spiritual trials as Jesus was about to be crucified, resurrected, and disciples were sent to continue Jesus' mission. Peter would soon be tested by Satan to separate from Jesus because of immediate danger; disciples were forced to leave the Master Jesus and to travel homeless for God's sake; difficult times and spiritual warfare should be expected as they were related with Jesus and his mission. Jesus prepared his disciples to face the imminent danger and difficulties though they might fail. But Jesus' intercession would be with them, praying for the return of Peter that he would not give in or give out ultimately and also help his fellow brothers to be restored as well. His disciples were also reminded to travel in light and to live with bare necessities only in life that they might serve Jesus without hindrances.
My Master and dear friend Jesus, thanks for reminding me in advance that following you as your disciple is dangerous and difficult, and must be well prepared. Nevertheless, Your intercession and presence through the Holy Spirit is the most wonderful power and assurance in my life. Life in its essence is a mystery and not under our control no matter we are willing to face it or not. But life in You becomes secured though difficult trials, spiritual opposition, loss of temporary world's reward are indispensable. I am your disciple and following Your way without regret. May I satisfy solely in Your Presence and Love today and for the rest of my life.
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