“Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat; but that night they caught nothing.” John 21:3
Just days before Peter confidently declared, “I will lay down my life for you.” John 13:37. He had walked on water, seen countless miracles and healings and declared strongly enough that Jesus is the Son of the Living God that he moved from Simon to Peter. But, just hours later, Peter denied Jesus.
And then…Peter saw something wild in the tomb (hint: it was empty), and Jesus came to the upper room, breathed the Spirit upon the disciples. Peter heard Thomas’ declaration – “my Lord and my God!”
Now, just days following Peter goes back to fishing. Peter runs back to his old life. In essence, he goes back to being just Simon.
Ever felt this way? Having declared “I believe You are the Son of the Living God – I am Yours and will die for you! I will never betray You.” Only hours or minutes later to fall into sin…. This can feel devastating. Why would Jesus want me now? I might as well go back to who I was…
Jesus doesn’t see it that way. He comes for the lost lamb. You. He comes to the shore, seeking you. He calls you to join Him at His fire. He walks off with you to counsel and call you back to His side.
Jesus has redeemed you by His death and resurrection. Jesus now calls you to sanctification. Sanctity is a lifelong journey. But, to become a saint is the only journey that counts. There will be potholes, wrong turns and even blowouts along the way. But, Jesus is always ahead of you on your Road of Faith, waiting to guide you back.
Just don’t lose hope that ‘this’ fall is too big or too much. Despair is the tragedy not the fall.