Swimming to Jesus

Today’s Jewel:

Wholehearted Pursuit

Treasure Map Coordinates:

John 21:1-14

As part of our youth leadership team, I had the distinct privilege of watching our students participate in youth games. On a couple of occasions, the game was, “What would you do for a buck?” Students who wished to participate would agree to hideous (but not entirely egregious) tasks. Not surprisingly, most of the challenges involved food or drink. Students who successfully completed their challenges earned a buck.

Watching from the perimeter, I often wondered why students would agree to these challenges—all for one measly dollar. Now, don’t get me wrong. I believe in the value of a dollar. I am a firm believer in the old adage, “A penny saved is indeed a penny earned.” While this is true, there are some tasks simply not worth the portrait of George Washington.

Why the discrepancy? Why would these students attempt challenges for a dollar that I wouldn’t touch with a ten foot pole (and vice versa)? I am convinced you and I are compelled to certain tasks by our values.

In John 21:1-14, seven of Jesus’ disciples are in a boat. After fishing all night, they didn’t have a single fish to show for their efforts. About one hundred yards away on the shore, a man calls out to them, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some [fish]” (John 21:6). Shrugging their shoulders, the disciples decided to take the man up on his suggestion. Casting their net on the right side of the boat, they caught so many fish they were unable to haul in their net.

At the sight of so many squirming fish, John immediately realized the man on shore is none other than Jesus. He leans over to Peter and says, “It is the Lord” (John 21:7)! Without hesitation, Peter jumps into the water and swims to Jesus.

Peter simply could not get to Jesus fast enough.

As I read this story, I paused and put myself in Peter’s boat. (Pun intended.) If I’m on the boat and suddenly realize Jesus is on the shore, a few thoughts might keep me from plunging into the sea. Undoubtedly, my first concern is the water temperature. It is, after all, springtime in Israel. The water temperatures aren’t exactly warm. Yep. I’m thinking 72 degrees is a bit chilly for my bones.

What if I do swim to shore? My next considerations focus on the consequences of my actions. It is impossible to jump into water and remain dry. While the thought of being on shore with Jesus is thrilling, I do not like the idea of sitting around all morning in soggy clothes. And of course, I’d be cold too. I would either have to deal with the inconvenience of finding dry clothes or endure the misery of wet clothes all morning. Neither option sounds appealing.

Finally, what will my buddies think of me? If I jump overboard and start swimming to shore, they will think I’m crazy! It will only take about three minutes to get this boat to the shore. My buddies will think I’m impatient and crazy if I swim to Jesus.

Peter, however, wasn’t deterred by momentary discomfort in chilly waters. The minor inconvenience of wearing wet clothes was easy to disregard. And reputation? Pshaw. Peter didn’t care one iota what his buddies thought of him. He simply had to get to Jesus. Now. He valued time with Jesus more than he valued comfort, convenience and his reputation.

Keep in mind Peter—just days ago—denied Jesus (Luke 22:54-62). Jesus had even predicted he would do so. Peter vehemently scoffed at such words. He would never turn his back on the Lord!

Until he did.

Denying Jesus came far easier than he expected. In fact, Peter didn’t stop after one denial. Three times he denied knowing Jesus! The next morning, at the sound of a crowing rooster, Peter wept bitterly at the realization of his actions.

Days later, when Peter swam to Jesus, this agonizing memory was certainly on the front of his mind. Experience and perspective changed Peter. He was no longer willing to let anything come between him and his Savior—even the chilly waters of the Sea of Galilee.

Our own excuses come easy. Discomfort, inconvenience and reputation are just a few of many. We must consciously choose to pursue Jesus. Recklessly abandon the boat you’re in and swim to Jesus!

Almighty God, I thank you for being on the shore for me. Always ready to help and offer wisdom. Forgive me for the times I ignore you and your counsel. Forgive me for living life on my own, full of pride. Lord, at times I do choose comfort and convenience over you. Sometimes I believe the lie that my reputation is more important than following your standards. The fact is, I desperately need you permeating every moment of every day. I can’t change yesterday and tomorrow has not yet arrived, but I choose to swim to you today, Jesus! Today I will pursue you with my whole heart. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

For Reflection

How is discomfort or inconvenience preventing you from decisively pursuing Jesus?

In what ways have you valued your reputation more than your pursuit of your Savior?

What is keeping you from wholeheartedly pursuing Jesus today?

Bury that Treasure!

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength

(Mark 12:30).

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Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible: The New International Version (NIV)

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