The Look - Marlene Custer
At a recent family gathering, my daughters were reminiscing over some of their escapades growing up. There was much laughter (as well as talking over each other) when one of the girls suddenly exclaimed, “Watch out! Mom is giving us ‘the look!” I am not quite sure what ‘the look’ is comprised of, but it seems to wield a great deal of power. It was often used at the dinner table, at church, or other social occasions.
While ‘the look’ of bygone days brought animated laughter to our family gatherings, I remember a time in history when ‘the look’ did not inspire laughter. I think of Peter for instance. His contemporary, Luke, wrote of the events of the evening when Jesus was arrested. Peter had pledged his allegiance to Jesus, declaring he was ready to go to prison or even death for Him. But Jesus warned Peter that he was not as strong as he boasted and would actually deny that he even knew his beloved Master.
Sure enough, seated around a campfire later that evening, Peter was confronted by a young servant girl who said he had been with Jesus. Others agreed. Peter vehemently denied Jesus three times—once with an oath! Luke recorded, “Just as he (Peter) was speaking, the rooster crowed. The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered…and he went outside and wept bitterly.” (Luke 22:60-62 NIV)
Amazing! One look from Jesus changed Peter’s entire destiny. Peter gave up a profitable business, he gave up material comforts, and eventually he gave up his life for Jesus. What would happen if we should get ‘the look’ from Christ? How would our lives change?
“Jesus, someday, I will see you face to face. Because I have accepted Your saving grace, I anticipate seeing Your look of mercy and forgiveness. Please help me to be faithful. Amen.”
Marlene is a retired teacher who longs to make Jesus known. Contact
