Scripture for Today: John 21:7b “…As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, ‘It is the Lord,’ he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water.”

Puddle splashing and little boys go together!  My grandsons happily jump into the biggest puddle they can find with both feet, hoping to make as big a splash as possible.  With the recent rains and flooding in Southern California, there are plenty of opportunities.  At their age it is a supervised controlled activity, but I imagine when they are older, shoes, socks and pants will be well soaked.

Today’s verse has someone jumping in the water.  The disciples were not too sure who exactly it was on the shore telling them how to fish.  But in following His instruction, these experienced fishermen realized that their huge haul was a miracle.  With John’s declaration, impetuous Peter jumps into the water to meet the Lord!  He is excited to brave the wet and cold in order to reach Jesus first.  If it meant getting wet and soggy he was willing.  That cold water was surely a shock to the system for Peter, especially after fishing all night.  But after the humiliation of his recent denial, Peter may have been anxious to prove his love and faithfulness with that jump.

Jumping in with both feet into something cold, wet and uncomfortable does not appeal to me.  But often, the Lord puts those trials or puddles directly in my path.  That path could lead to a deeper more intimate relationship with Him.  If going through that difficulty can result in a closer more loving relationship, than maybe I should “consider it joy” (James 1:2) and jump in with both feet!

Lord, help me live life with joy, regardless of the puddles.