Pieces of the Puzzle

Just before verses 15-17, we find that after Christ’s resurrection, Peter is a little lost and has gone back to his old life of fishing. It had confused the Disciples that things had not gone the way they thought they should go. They kind of felt lost. That happens to me, I think I understand what it is God wants me to do and before I have all the information I am making my plans, organizing things in the way I think they should go. When I look up I realize I have gotten lost again. I took my eyes off God’s plans and started making my own plans thinking I knew just what God wanted. Sometimes I get it so wrong that I almost feel that I have lost faith for a little while. Maybe I even lose faith so much that I go back to my old way of living.

I feel in this scene that Peter lost his way for a little while. So he went back to what he knew best, the fishing business. But this story is such a story of hope. Christ didn’t give up on Peter. He didn’t say “I can’t believe after ALL I have shown this man he goes back to his old way of life?” No. Jesus went out and met Peter where he was. He never judged Peter at this moment. He knew he was lost so Jesus brought him back to the simple truth. “Peter do you love me?” Yes Lord, You know I do.” “Peter do you love me” Yes Lord, You know I do… and Jesus asks him a third time. “Peter, do you LOVE me?” Jesus knew Peter loved Him, but Peter had forgotten that Peter loved Him.

Just like Peter, I have doubts some days and I find myself back in my old life. Jesus comes out to where I am looking for me. He calmly reminds me of the truths I have in my heart. The love I have for Jesus gives me strength that can get me through even the tough times of getting back on track.

Lord, when I find that I have muddied life up again, I can be confident that you will find me in the cloudiest of waters. You patiently remind me of the truths I have stored in my heart. May I answer your call with a clear, Yes Lord, you know I love you. Amen.