If you live in a rural area, you have most likely been awakened at the crack of dawn by the crow of a rooster. Different languages and cultures have ways of describing the rooster’s call. In English it is pronounced “cock-a-doodle-doo” but in Italy it is “chicchirichi” and in Nepal it is “kukhuri kaa.” No matter how you render it, the call of a rooster cannot be missed.

In Matthew 26:69–75, a rooster crowed, as Peter, one of Jesus’ closest disciples, faced a profound moment of failure. Just hours earlier, Peter had boldly declared his unwavering loyalty to Jesus, promising never to forsake Him. However, as Jesus was arrested and taken to the high priest’s courtyard, Peter followed at a distance, fear and confusion mounting within him.

As Peter sat outside, a servant girl approached him, accusing him of being with Jesus. Peter denied it: “I don’t know what you’re talking about” (v. 70). He moved away, but another servant girl saw him and said to the people there, “This fellow was with Jesus of Nazareth” (v. 71). Again, Peter denied it with an oath (v. 72). Finally, others came and said, “Surely you are one of them; your accent gives you away.” Peter began to call down curses, swearing, “I don’t know the man!” (vv. 73–74). Immediately, a rooster crowed, and Peter remembered Jesus’ words: “Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times” (v. 75). Peter went outside and wept bitterly.

The crowing of the rooster is a powerful symbol of conviction and the realization of failure. For Peter, it marked the moment when his fear and weakness were laid bare, but it also began his journey of repentance and restoration. Jesus had foreseen Peter’s denial, yet He also foresaw Peter’s role in leading the early church. Despite his failure, Peter was not abandoned.

Donate to Today in the Word: https://give.todayintheword.org/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.