The Comeback Part 1Sýnishorn

Title: "Keep Coming Back"

Here’s the fairytale: You go to camp and have an encounter with Jesus. His promises fill you with His peace and hope and you go home ready to turn away from every worldly thing that left you empty. You declare yourself a comeback kid on fire for Jesus, and that fire never fades. You live happily ever after. The end.

What happens when reality sets in? Temptation knocks. Relationships hurt. Life gets boring and you choose to fill your time the way everyone else is? What happens when you stumble? How does a comeback kid respond?

Simon Peter failed Jesus. Peter, one of the first followers of Jesus, who was present for most of His recorded miracles. Peter, the rock on which Christ said He would build His church. Even he stumbled. Peter denied Jesus three times in His darkest hour.

But the mercy of Jesus is greater than any failure. Before Peter’s denial, Jesus spoke forgiveness over him, saying, “So when you have repented and turned to me again, strengthen your brothers.” (Luke 22:32). Jesus didn’t disqualify Peter; He restored him.
Simon Peter was also one of the first people Jesus revealed His resurrection to. Peter went on to establish the first Christian church and perform miracles in Jesus’ name. He saw 3000 people surrender to Jesus in just one day of ministry.

What can we learn from Peter? Failing doesn’t disqualify us- grace redeems us.

Jesus spoke these words over 2000 years ago, long before we were born. But they weren’t just for Peter; they were also for us.

Jesus knew you would stumble. But still He calls you to be a comeback kid, someone who returns to Him, no matter what. Failure isn’t the end; it’s an opportunity to experience God’s mercy and continue your mission.

When temptation comes, when you fall short, or when your past haunts you, remember: Jesus Himself prays for you. Keep going, keep trusting, and keep coming back.

- Stacy Allen