What does Luke 22:62 mean?

Jesus had warned Peter that Satan had asked to tempt the disciples to abandon Jesus. God agreed. But Jesus prayed that Peter would return and encourage the future church leaders, to build their faith again. Peter refused to believe he would ever deny Jesus. Jesus responded that before the rooster crowed, Peter would deny him three times (Luke 22:31–34).

Jesus' prophesy has come true. The disciples have scattered (Matthew 26:56). Peter has followed the mob that took Jesus all the way into the courtyard of the high priest (John 18:15–16). But in fear for his life, Peter has denied that he knows Jesus three times. The third time, Jesus looks at him, and Peter remembers (Luke 22:54–61).

Peter is heartbroken and isn't thinking about the second part of Jesus' prophecy. Jesus will rise again. He will restore Peter (John 21:15–17). After Jesus' ascension, Peter will build up Jesus' followers. First, he'll lead them into finding a replacement for Judas (Acts 1:12–26). Then, filled with the Holy Spirit, he will preach to thousands at Pentecost (Acts 2). When the Sanhedrin tells him to stop teaching about Jesus' resurrection, he'll ignore them (Acts 4:18–22). When they beat him, he'll rejoice (Acts 5:27–42). Even when he missteps (Galatians 2:11–14), he rights himself and leads the church to a better understanding of the gospel (Acts 15).

This day, he weeps bitterly. For three days, he will hide in fear (John 20:19). But that is not the end of Peter's story.