A passenger train with two engines was traveling across America. One of the engines broke down so the engineer addressed the passengers, telling them of the situation, but reassured them that everything was fine because they could continue with just one engine. After about an hour, the train came to a stop because the other engine broke down. The engineer again addressed the passengers saying, “I have some bad news and some good news. The bad news is that both engines are out and we will be stuck here for sometime. The good news is that you decided to take the train instead of flying!”

Our story today is of some bad news and some good news.

When the rooster crowed, an overconfident man had fallen. Jesus had said that Peter would deny Him three times before the rooster crowed. Peter was sure that this wouldn’t happen. He had boasted that he would never leave Him, and that, if necessary, he would lay down his life for the Lord. The other apostles also made the same claim (Matthew 26:33-35). Of course, things turned out just as the Lord said they would. When the pressure was on, and it seemed that all who stood with the Lord would also die with Him, Peter denied Him.

When the rooster crowed, a man became aware of his weaknesses and was filled with Godly sorrow. When these things took place, the Lord turned and looked at Peter. It was one of those looks that pierces to the depth of the soul. Peter was wrong and he knew it. The Bible says that Peter went out and wept bitterly (Luke 22:61-62).

When the rooster crowed, a man was in a position of potential growth and service. A short time later, Jesus would call on Peter once again for service (John 21:15-17). Jesus does not give up on a man because he fails. The record of Peters’ service after these events gives hope to all who have fallen; it gives hope to those who have wept over their own transgressions. Only when we have been on our knees over our sins; only when we see ourselves as God sees us are we ready to begin a life in His service.

For a free audio cassette of a lesson entitled ‘When The Rooster Crowed’ email bcc@moment.net or call 830-833-4884.