Peter and Judas were both his devoted followers and friends. But Judas had a part to play in God's will so that we all may be eternally saved and live a joyful life. He betrayed Jesus and sent Him into the hands of those who would torture and kill Him. Peter also betrays Jesus. To avoid the same fate as Jesus, he denies ever knowing him. After Jesus' death, they are both overwhelmed with regret for the choices they made. But they make two very different choices, one turns toward God and the other away. Peter allows himself to be forgiven and be used powerfully by God throughout his life. Judas stays focused on himself and on what he has done. The darkness continues to grow as he chooses to walk further away from God and he ultimately takes his own life.
I see in their stories how great God's love is. No matter how bad we screw up, God is always there hoping that we will take the road that Peter did. He loved Peter and Judas just as much as He loves us, as a parent loves each of their children. He forgave Peter and used him in amazing ways and He would have forgiven Judas too and used him in amazing ways.
For every weakness we have, God's spirit is strong. For every regret we carry, God is merciful to forgive. When the way is unclear, turn to Him, He is waiting to do amazing things with you.
