When Jesus died, his friends mourned. Peter felt additional guilt because he denied knowing Jesus. Luke tells us how Peter wept bitterly after realizing what he'd done. After Jesus rose, he made sure to meet Peter personally. Even though we don't have all the details, we know Jesus wanted Peter to know he was forgiven. It's easy to imagine Peter running to Jesus, but it's more realistic to think he hesitated because of shame. Ever felt like you couldn't go to God because of guilt? Peter's journey back to Jesus wasn't quick. It took small steps, like throwing himself into the water. Life's like that too—lots of little steps before big changes. This encounter with Jesus transformed Peter from a broken follower to a brave leader. It shows that Jesus cares about each of us personally. Peter's story reminds us that God is patient as we find our way back to Him.