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"Three Times" by Mike Janzen: Forgiveness Beyond the Rooster's Cry


(by Jasper Tan) Emotionally raw, introspective, honest, and vulnerable, that's what Mike Janzen's latest single "Three Times" is. Exploring themes centered on guilt, failure, and finding redemption through the disciple Peter, the song aptly expresses that emotionally raw feeling when one is in a dire situation but remembers that Peter once denied Jesus "three times" yet Jesus forgave and loved him still. This is a novel way of connecting and finding inspiration from someone who had committed betrayal against Jesus, yet proved to be a testament of Jesus' love that even if he was betrayed, his love still remains. 

Mike Janzen - Three TimesSometimes our strong faith also results in us being "dragged down" by guilt and shame, because we ask ourselves why we betrayed someone we had promised to put our complete trust and faith in. This often would lead us to be overwhelmed by our shortcomings, perhaps feeling shame. But as the song is trying to say, "Three Times" we failed and betrayed, but also, "Three Times" we are restored for three times Jesus also forgave and loves us. If you are looking for a song that is filled with poetic imagery, then this song is rich with it. Using metaphors like "words are smoke", a "net filled with shame", and the "boat is filled", which co-relates to our human experience of being weighed down by our struggles and yet finding relief in redemption and forgiveness. 

"Three Times" is a poignant song that beautifully expresses the struggles of our being human, acknowledging our limitations as human beings, and encouraging us to ultimately find hope in Jesus Christ.

(Related scripture: Luke 22:34; Matthew 26:75; Matthew 18:22)

Background:

This song is folky, moody and tells the story of redemption through the disciple Peter. Some fantastic musicians on this recording including Kevin Breit (Norah Jones) and Joel Schwartz (guitar, dobro). Enjoy!

Release date: April 24, 2026

Connect with Mike Janzen

Would you like to hear more CCM music? Then check out our Christian playlists on: https://www.christiandance.eu/playlists



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