No one walked closer to Jesus than the Apostle Peter. Yet, when persecution came, Peter began following Jesus at a distance (Mark 14:54). 

I guess that's why I relate to Peter. If you recall, when Peter denied his Lord for the third time, Peter did it while cursing (Mark 14:71). This suggests Peter was far from perfect -- like me. And it seems that Peter really liked to fish (John 21:3-19). I'm no fisherman. But, I love the outdoors too. Believe me, there are things I'd rather be doing than sitting here in front of this computer screen. 

Yet Jesus saw something in Peter's heart -- something that you and I would have probably missed. And it was to that something in Peter's heart that Jesus was appealing -- just like He is you and me.

Here's the point: Don't give up on yourself. Even if you have been following at a distance; or even if you've done some things you think unforgivable, remember that Jesus sees something in us that we can't see for ourselves. In other words, think of Peter.

That's what I do.