Reflecting on John 21:1-9“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.” (John 21:7)
Once again Peter makes a public display of his devotion to Jesus.
But this follows his three-time public denial of Jesus.
Peter knew himself, his failure and his weakness… but he also knew Jesus.
He knew Jesus well enough that he could expect mercy and grace.
He had heard the parable of the prodigal son, he knew there was hope for him.
When I think about the return of Jesus, I have similar hope.
I am also aware of my failure and weakness, but I know Jesus.
We do not need to hide in fear when the Lord appears (like Adam and Eve did).
Jesus will come again like He did the first time, full of grace and truth.
He knows our weakness and failure, but it was sinners he came to save.
I do not warn or threaten people about Jesus, I let them know ‘It is the Lord!’
Jesus is not a vindictive, vengeful, angry Lord seeking to punish.
To the very end He will be what He always was: humble, gracious, compassionate.
Each of us like Peter can come as we are, Jesus will receive us!
Jump in, run, come on your knees to Jesus, for He is eager to welcome you!
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, I have in mind the picture of the Father running toward the prodigal son. When we run to You, You are running to us. Just as I am, I come, I come!
Just as Jesus welcome the little children to come unto Him, I too am a child of God, coming to His embracing arms. My earthly father reminded me that always was his little boy, no matter my age. So too am I, a child of the King Who loves all the ‘kids’of the kingdom.