I left Peter out yesterday – I believe John does too. He runs to the tomb – fit from fishing and walking along with Jesus – perhaps seeking confrontation with a Roman guard to vent the shame of his denial: the ‘if onlys’ of the last 48 hours (haven’t we all been there?). Think about all Peter had seen, all he’d understood over his time with Jesus – I am glad that Jesus chose Peter – he is the first one who understands that our actions put Jesus on that cross and he can’t yet dare to believe that all his mistakes have been sorted, paid for, obliterated just like the gates of Hell! “If Jesus is alive, I’m going to have to face Him,” he thinks!

Peter’s words in v.3 come from that place of loss, bewilderment and guilt – going back to my old ways, experiencing defeat even there – no fish – “I cannot do the thing I’m supposed to be good at either,” he must have thought. 

What might you have to face up to just now? What is your place of failure or disappointment right now? Read on….

Jesus does for Peter exactly what He does for us – He comes and finds us, speaks life, forgiveness, future and purpose to us: restoration. “It is the LORD”.

Did they say anything to each other (21.8-9) while the others got the boat to shore? When did you last remember that the only place you really want is one very close to Jesus? Although you know you’ve failed Him again, there’s still nowhere you’d rather be than ‘closer than my skin?’ And, that’s where Jesus wants you now.  Pause and allow His presence and forgiveness to wash over you now.

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Actions:

Watch this worship song by Steffany Gretzinger:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=91hHw1YPqxE 

Jesus is very clear with Peter: there’s a job to do, specific and dangerous (21.15-18). “…what is that to you? You must follow me.”  It’s a verse we all need engraved on our brain. 

Praise God for Peter’s story and the hope it brings and the faith it kindles in God’s amazing purpose and specific job He has for us!