Jesus’ disciples were very different kinds of people. Very different. Let’s just say that the only thing that held them together was Jesus. Other than that, they would have been perpetually at odds and I suspect often were. Otherwise, Jesus would not have had to keep emphasizing the scripture we read today about loving each other!

Peter, called “the rock” could be impulsive, forceful, impetuous, and sometimes belligerent. While Jesus would have valued these qualities, as he knew they would be important for Peter’s ability to endure the challenges of opposition in the days of the early church, still it seems Jesus struggled sometimes to keep Peter in check and on task. Peter could be prone to doubts. One minute he was loyal and faithful, the next doubting and denying. Loud and often challe…