Naughty Peter Rabbit

by Jamie Barrett

Garden Thief
Have you read the story of Peter Rabbit? This mischievous rabbit, who also goes by Peter Cottontail, just cannot stay out of Farmer McGregor’s garden. The carrots, lettuce, and other tempting vegetables lure him in time and again. Even through McGregor’s pitchfork threatens, Peter cannot resist the temptation of triumph. Beatrix Potter created this wonderful character. Thornton Burgess borrowed Peter Rabbit to further explore the exploits of this naughty little rabbit that you cannot help but like. Peter Rabbit grows on you. You find yourself rooting for him. You are on the edge of your seat hoping that he gets away from the looming danger one more time. If caught, he will end up in the pot and on McGregor’s dinner plate.

Trespassing
The trespasses of Peter Rabbit are tallied up by the enraged farmer. He wants nothing more than to get his hands on the rabbit and end the garden thief's existence. I think we root for Peter Rabbit because we too have been in perilous predicaments choosing to trespass over and over. The danger of trespassing dwindles as the risk of reward becomes irresistible. Like Peter Rabbit, who cannot stay out of Farmer McGregor’s garden, we go back to the temptations and danger of sin.

Forgiveness
Trespassers need forgiveness. This is especially true when the consequence for trespassing is eternal wrath poured out in full strength forever. Yet, the sweetness of forgiveness is extended to you freely in Christ. God never turns anyone away to my utter amazement! Like Peter Rabbit who steals vegetables, we are glory thieves trespassing on the forbidden grounds of sin and rebellion. The good news is that God is far more kind than Mr. McGregor. And that kindness is found in Christ.