People who are passionate are world changers. They don't easily quit when the going gets tough. You want them in your health care offices, growing your food, behind the teacher's desk and speaking from the pulpit. Passionate people press on through preposterous places pursuing excellence. Ponder that! They move mountains when necessary. They inspire, too.
Peter was the passionate disciple. He was full of energy and held strong convictions. There were times Jesus redirected him (i.e.: in the garden, the vision regarding circumcision & bacon). Still, it was his passion that made Peter the perfect guy to spread the news of Christ and build the church. The way to salvation was shared with Jews and Gentiles. Peter's passionate personality was part of the recipe for spreading the gospel. He came equipped with it. Jesus was able to use Peter's gifts to His glory.
Peter wasn't perfect, but there were times he was ahead of the rest. I love this passage. He was the first to boldly recognize Jesus as God incarnate. Not just a teacher or prophet, but the true son of God.
"He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” -Matthew 16:15-16
Peter is often criticized for his fearful moment when walking on the water to Jesus. I'd like to point out, he was the only one who had enough faith to get out of the boat. And, when he began to sink, Jesus immediately reached out so Peter could take his hand.
Three out of four gospels record this night on the sea. Only Matthew (Matthew 14) records Peter's little walk on the water. Matthew, the former tax collector, knew what it meant to feel like a failure. Jesus rescued him, too.
Our passions direct our hearts. Choose them wisely and offer them up as that "living sacrifice" mentioned in Romans 12:1. Not in fear, but with excitement and wonder at the adventures ahead.
Today, I am grateful for passionate people.
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