In a stunning glimpse into a realm we comprehend dimly, Jesus turned to Simon Peter and said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat.

Jesus pulled back the curtain. Satan makes such demands and God listens? Did Satan request access when he tempted Jesus in the wilderness? Or did he and Jesus have regular conversations?

I find this troubling—who else does Satan demand to sift?

Sifting wheat by hand involved beating, stomping or grinding. Satan beat on Peter, gleefully anticipating the collapse of his faith. Indeed, Peter failed the test. But Jesus pulled him back.

Which I find hopeful in the midst of this terrifying realization. Yes, Satan may sift. He loves to trigger failures of faith. Satan squeezed Peter until he denied Jesus over and over again. But Jesus restored Peter to a new life. No matter our sifting, or how complete our collapse, the Lord opens a way for our return.

Luke 22:31-34

Photo by Being Organic in EU