John 21:6-7 He said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish. Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, “It is the Lord,” he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water.
Peter had every right to still be uncomfortable at the thought of seeing Jesus face-to-face. He had vehemently denied Christ three times during the horrific torture before the crucifixion. Jesus had appeared to them in the upper room since then. We don’t know a lot about what He may have said to Peter then. Whatever the case, Peter could not constrain himself at the sight of Jesus. Even though the boat was close to shore, Peter jumped out and swam to shore. What must that embrace have been like? Peter had experienced the lowest point of his life - looking into the eyes of Jesus after denying he knew Him. That betrayal was culminated as Peter watched his Lord die on the cross. Now, to be able to see Him once again! Peter was not sheepish about approaching the Lord. Whenever you feel unworthy and overcome with your sin, remember Peter. Run to your knees in prayer to embrace the One who is eager to forgive – the One who made forgiveness possible.
Jesus, I know none of Your bones were broken on the cross that day, but Your heart was crushed over my sin. Protect me from my own guilt and satan’s whispers of, “Unworthy!” May I jump out of the boat to You with joy knowing You are eager to forgive and teach me how to get back on God’s path for my life. I love You! Amen
Posts
