The Hope of Becoming: Chapel Reflection with Darrell Delaney
Before he became as widely known as he is today, the Apostle Peter wasn’t that different from the rest of us, says Darrell Delaney — and we can learn a few things from his journey.
“He doesn’t start out as this hall-of-fame disciple; he was just a regular guy who made a lot of mistakes, and I can relate to that because I’m also a regular guy who makes a lot of mistakes,” he told students, staff, and faculty gathered in the Vos Chapel in early February for a twice-weekly service.
The pastor, podcast host, faith-driven leadership coach, and 2005 Kuyper graduate noted that Peter’s story shows us the essential impact that being witnesses — not simply watchers — can have on our faith.
“A watcher stands by and sees things, but doesn’t really do anything or engage. But when you’re a witness, you have been marked by what you have seen,” he said. “Witnesses speak up and take action.”
Peter’s life also contains many examples of our faith’s deeply personal nature, Delaney emphasized, such as Jesus leaving the temple to heal his sick mother-in-law. Stories like this teach us that Jesus is not just Lord in our church buildings — He’s Lord everywhere.
“Just like Peter’s faith didn’t stay at the synagogue that day, our faith can’t just stay here in the chapel,” he added.
Peter encountered the source of his hope and strength firsthand when he witnessed the incredible events of Jesus’ ministry, and we can be sustained by that same source when we rely on Jesus’ steady presence during life’s difficult circumstances, Delaney insisted.
“Jesus isn’t intimidated by the things that freak us out, like disease, finances, war, and more. By healing and driving out demons, He’s teaching that despair doesn’t have the final word in our lives,” he said.
By following Peter’s example, we can begin to cultivate the kind of robust faith that endures through trials and trends, he emphasized.
“The closer you let Jesus get, the more things will change for the better,” Delaney said simply.
