Mark 14:26-31

Leaving the upper room, Jesus led his disciples to the Mount of Olives, and again he sought to prepare them for the dark hour ahead. The scandal of the cross would test their courage and their loyalty and, for the moment, they would fail him, even as the prophet Zechariah had foretold (Zechariah 13:7). I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered. (Mark 14:27).

To the disciples that hour would seem like the end of the world. Let them take heart, Jesus went on to say in effect, for in spite of all appearance to the contrary, it would not be the end of everything for after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee. (Mark 14:28). What a word of comfort! What a promise of the ultimate victory! After I have risen! But their minds were numb. They heard his prediction of tragedy but they did not hear his promise of ultimate triumph. How like the disciples are we all! The threat of doom always gains our attention. The promise of hope so often falls upon deaf ears.

With characteristic self-confidence Peter interrupted Jesus to say, Even if all fall away, I will not. (Mark 14:29)

The words of Jesus in response to Peter's brash statement were probably not meant as a rebuke but as a warning. I tell you the truth, today - yes, tonight - before the rooster crows twice, you yourself will disown me three times. (Mark 14:30).

The Jews recognized two hours when the cock crowed - one about midnight, and the other toward the break of day.

It is of interest to remember that Mark probably learned a great deal about the story of Jesus from Peter. It would seem that, as Peter told Mark of this incident, the very words of Jesus still rang in his ears. How could he ever forget them? How vehemently he had denied the possibility of such a thing! (Mark 14:31). How literally were the words of Jesus fulfilled!