Simon Peter, the disciple, a boy scout?

John 18:10 "Then Simon Peter having a sword drew it, and smote the high priest's servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant's name was Malchus."

BSA Motto: Be prepared.

Did the other disciples have swords ready just in case? Doens't look like it. They'd been warned things were gonna get ugly soon and Peter was ready for it! Gosh I bet he was even an Eagle Scout.. Even if the others did have swords they sure didn't act did they? Nope. Just Peter.

Now of course then soon after Peter denies knowing or having associated with Christ three times. And who was the 3rd person who accused Peter of having worked with Jesus?

John 10: 26: "The One of the servants of the high priest, being his kinsman whose ear Peter cut off, saith, Did not I see thee in the garden with him?

Malchus. Back again. Kinda interesting tho isn't it? Do you think Malchus was still all fired up and ready to capture Christ? He'd just had a super traumatic and incredible experience!! Had his right ear lobbed off by Peter and then completely restored within seconds by the man who he was supposed to be taking to his death! I'm thinkin I would have had a change of heart.. but maybe not about the guy who lobbed my ear off haha.

But here's another thought. Peter met Malchus in a somewhat of a 'judgement day' experience. It was that final denial that set the cock crowing. Kinda feel like it was more than just by chance that it was Malchus, he to whom Peter had wronged, that he had to face before the 'end'. Also somewhat a 'what goes around comes around' feel to it doesn't it..

Whatever the case may be, bitter tears followed. After his sincere repentance however, Christ then allows Peter the opportunity to acknowledge his belief in and love for Him. The Lord asks Peter three times whether he loves Him to which he responds in the affirmative.

We all pass through experiences that humble us. That's how we grow and become better. Following those trying experiences Peter became the leader of the Church, the rock.

So really, just cuz we're Eagle Scouts doesn't mean we're perfect.. yet. ;)