Not long after the second time of announcing Simon’s change of name, Jesus finally calls him Peter.   The only recorded instance of Jesus calling Simon by the name Peter is recorded in Luke 22.34.  Jesus uses the name Peter when he prophesied that Simon was about to deny him three times that night.  Ouch.

Why did Jesus wait until this moment to call him Peter?  It seems so contrary to the new name.  This is the occasion when Simon is the least rock-like.  Why not call him Peter after one of his many declarations of truth, or demonstrations of faithfulness?  Why not call him Peter after he walked on water!?!  Why wait to call him by this name of ‘rock’ when you’re telling him he will be very un-rock-like?  Why use this name to tell Simon he will betray his friend, the one for whom only moments previously he had said he would lay down his life?

“Peter, before the rooster crows you will have disowned me three times.”

When the soldiers came to arrest Jesus, Simon took up the sword – some would say that is rock-like behaviour when your mentor and rabbi is being abused and unfairly treated.

When Jesus was taken in for questioning, Simon and John talked their way into the courtyard – some would say that is rock-like behaviour to stay aware of what is happening to your friend and teacher.

But when he is questioned by a servant girl Simon operated in non-rock-like behaviour.  Some may say it didn’t really matter what a servant girl thought, Simon was focused on what was happening to Jesus.  The servant girl was a distraction. Simon wanted to find out what would happen to Jesus, so he let the denials flow and kept his attention on the court proceedings.

Imagine Simon’s fear and guilt when he heard the rooster crow.  Imagine the sinking feeling in his gut when he realised that these flippant denials to an insignificant servant girl really did matter.  Imagine the depth of shame and embarrassment as he made eye contact with Jesus.  What passed between them in that brief encounter?  How rock-like did Simon feel in those moments?

Simon…, Simon…, Simon…