Peter betrayed/denied Jesus and was a part of His INNER circle. Peter was the most courageous,the most outspoken, and the most willing to walk in faith of all the disciples. And yet he betrayed the person he loved the most, Jesus.
Betrayal can only come from the inside. From people close to you.
But after His resurrection, Jesus said "tell my disciples and Peter". Jesus sent for Peter, loved on him, forgave him, and challenged him to be a keeper of His flock. It wasn't until AFTER Peter betrayed Jesus and accepted his reconciliation back to Him that he was able to truly accept and LIVE out who he was created to be. Peter counted the cost and became a force in the Kingdom. He was able to lead people to Christ with NO self gain. To forgive and show grace and mercy because he could recall when he needed it! Sometimes when people betray us we're real quick to judge their "choice" for their character and we "throw the whole person away." We claim that it can't be love because we've been hurt and want nothing to do with them. I'm not saying everyone that hurts you should remain in your life. However, I am saying we must ask our Father what He would have us do in the situation and reconcile when He directs us to.
Peter is a prime example of allowing circumstances to circumvent the truth to save our own lives. But it is Jesus's example that shows us that betrayal is STILL covered by grace and the betrayer may turn out to be one of your greatest friends and supporters. And please always remember, that same grace, mercy and forgiveness you withhold, you will one day need!