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“When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he tied his outer garment around him (for he was stripped) and plunged into the sea.” John 21:7b (HCSB)

Who would have ever thought a fisherman would be a world changer? Definitely not those who cast their nets with him day after day after day. Who would have thought one whose irrational behavior would be the very rock Christ would build His church upon? Probably not those who watched him betray the very One who would restore His soul. Who would have dreamed this beaten up disciple would be the motivating voice and encourager to early Christians suffering persecution? When Peter was at his absolute worst, God saw the potential hidden deep within him.

Regardless of our past, God’s vision is not limited to our list of wrongs, failures and utter flops. While He is fully aware of our choices, thoughts, actions and motives (Psalm 139), God doesn’t simply erase us off the list. Instead He specializes in using all of our moments to chisel away, sharpen and refine our character. Now that’s quite a lot of love, patience, longsuffering and grace to cover all of us.

Despite the overflowing compassion of our God, we often get trapped, enslaved and lost in our past. Perhaps that’s how Peter felt. Flashbacks of his words of denial probably plagued him– I know they would me. Regret over fleeing instead of staying by his Savior would mostly likely consume him – I know they would me. Resuming his former vocation of fishing, Peter probably thought his chances of glorifying God were extinguished – I would too.

And isn’t it just like our Jesus to show up when we feel like all is lost. Daybreak comes and Peter’s night of fishing has failed miserably. A boat load of disciples and an empty net. A voice from shore compelled them to cast their nets on the right side of the boat and wow, did they ever catch a load of fish. John recognized his Lord’s voice and Peter abandons all, jumps in the water and runs to shore. It was the sweetest reunion ever. One who thought his past had consumed him experienced the reassuring presence of Jesus (John 21).

Sweet friends, my soul echos hope as I read those words. An overwhelming past doesn’t have to consume us or chain us to yesterday. Our Restorer eagerly waits for us to release regrets and run to Him. We have absolutely nothing to lose except the chance of a lifetime to finish our race redeemed and glorifying God.

“Father, You are the ultimate chain breaker – setting free those who thought their past defined their future. Praising You for restoring our lives and birthing hope deep in our souls.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life