As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, “It is the Lord,” he wrapped his outer garment around him…and jumped into the water.  John 21:7

Peter was known as the impetuous one ~ more than all the other disciples.  He had a big heart, expressed himself with passion, and acted impulsively.  But this also got him into trouble.  His public bravado regarding an unwavering allegiance to Jesus came back to bite him.  It was just hours later that he would betray Jesus three times in the course of an hour.

After the resurrection, the disciples were in a boat.  John spotted Jesus on the shore and told Peter.  Peter threw himself into the sea to get there first.  This is typical of Peter’s personality yet I’m amazed at his boldness so soon after the humiliation of sin.

How did Peter know that his relationship with Jesus was intact?  How could he be so sure that Jesus would be pleased to see him?  Peter had never read the New Testament passages on grace.  They hadn’t been written yet.  He had no theological degree.  He just knew Jesus.  That was all.  That was enough.

Being forgiven with full restoration is a rare thing in this world.  We don’t expect it.  If we sin against someone severely enough, we never dare hope to gain their full trust.  We hang back, afraid to approach the one we wronged with any sense of confidence.  We read their facial expressions and body language to discern where we stand.  If we sense ambivalence, we wait from a distance.

When Jesus forgives, he puts our sins behind his back.  He never brings them out again to accuse us and remind us of what we’ve done.  We can approach him as Peter did.  Whether we throw ourselves into the sea or run across the threshold into his embrace, we can be assured of warm and happy reunion.

I always know where I stand with you, Lord.  Thank you for such extravagant forgiveness.