The phrase “on duty” may conjure up images of police officers and medical workers, or, if you have a swimming pool, it may describe your designated lifeguard.

In John 18, we find “the girl on duty”, one of whom I had never paid much attention.

The scene occurs after Jesus was arrested and taken to the house of Caiaphas, the high priest. Jesus’ disciple, John, was allowed in the courtyard. Peter, however, was forced to wait outside until John “…came back, spoke to the girl on duty there and brought Peter in” (John 18:16b).

She is also referred to as “the girl at the door” (John 18:17) and a servant.  

Apparently, her “duty” was to watch the entrance to the high priest’s courtyard. She would have been aware of who was coming and going. Perhaps, she even saw a bound Jesus brought in by the temple guard.

Then she saw Peter and asked, “You are not one of his disciples, are you?” (John 18:17). We know Peter’s response becomes the first of his three denials of knowing Jesus.

But, what can me observe about “the girl on duty”?

• First, she was there, “on duty”, doing what she was expected to do.
• Being “on duty” brought her blessing. She may have seen Jesus, the Messiah, and was at the location of where His religious trials took place.
• She saw and spoke with Peter, thus becoming part of a prophecy spoken by Jesus Himself regarding Peter’s denials (John 13:38).

What can we learn from this girl?

Like her, may we be “on duty”, doing the work God has called us to do and using the gifts and resources He has blessed us with. We never know how God will use us to move His plans forward.

For progress and joy in the faith,