This was now the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead (John 21:14).

William Wallace was a Scotsman who sought to bring freedom from a tyrannical king of England in the 1200s. He took up this cause initially in retaliation for his own personal family losses. His cause grew among the people and it became a revolution against England. Wallace entreated Robert the Bruce, the future king of Scotland. However, Bruce betrayed Wallace in return for lands from the king of England. Wallace was turned over to the king of England for death by torture for crimes against England. Bruce realized his betrayal against Wallace and his own country. This remorse led to real repentance and a return to his commitment to the people of Scotland. He finally took ownership of the mission to free Scotland from England. He led the people of Scotland into subsequent battles against England and freed them. Wallace's defeat ultimately led to victory through Bruce. It took the lives of many, including Wallace, before victory could be accomplished.

So often defeat is what is required before victory can be won. Jesus said unless the seed dies and goes into the ground it cannot bring forth fruit. The death of a vision is often required before the fulfillment can really take place. Have you failed at something in your life? Have you not seen the vision fulfilled you thought you were given? The vision may yet happen.

The disciples thought their greatest defeat was when Jesus died on the cross. However, this defeat became the greatest victory on earth. Christ's death gave liberty. Forgiveness came to all men. New life came forth. New strength for the disciples. Resurrection and new life came as a result of a" defeat."

"There are triumphant defeats that rival victories." Montaigne, French Philosopher