Track Record

According to ABC News, Orville Rogers of Dallas, Texas set 5 new US and World Records in the 100-104 age category at the 2018 USATF Masters Indoor Track & Field Championships in Landover, Maryland. Rogers started running when he was 50 years old and began competing in track meets when he turned 90. He has quite the track record in Track Records.

The term “track record” most likely originated with horse racing and referred to a horse’s best time at a track. But the phrase has expanded over the years to include many areas of achievement. For example, we talk about the track records of investments, sports teams, people, companies, and products. Track records can be positive or negative. They are simply the things that someone has done in the past that can be used as a way to judge what that person is likely to do in the future. Perhaps you have a track record for being late to work or for setting off the smoke alarm when you are cooking. On the other hand, maybe you have a history of generosity or compassion. Either way, your past behaviors are often a good indicator of future performance.

The Bible mentions the track records of many people. Abraham had a track record of faithful obedience, but also lying. Moses’ track record included an explosive temper, but also a heart for God’s people. Samson had a history with women. David was accomplished in trusting God against all odds. For Solomon, operating with wisdom was his standard. Each of these people had a history that gave a clue to their present and future.

The apostle Peter also had a track record. Most memorable was three separate occasions where Peter blatantly denied his best friend. Not only did he deny knowing Jesus, he disowned everything about him—everything he had done—everything he had taught. But Peter also had a track record of obedience, trust, willingness, and zeal. Peter didn’t hesitate when Jesus said, “Come”. His feet knew the sure foundation of the Savior both on land and sea. Peter trusted Jesus whether bringing him five loaves and two fish to feed 5,000 people, or by putting his boat out into deep water at Jesus’ request after a night of futile fishing.

Back in the boat is where Jesus found Peter following the roller coaster week that included Jesus’ death and resurrection and Peter’s track record of denial. Jesus had already appeared to the disciples so Peter knew he was alive, but so far there was no specific interaction between Jesus and Peter. I can only imagine the shame and disgrace that hung over Peter’s head. (Talk about an elephant in the room!) Peter, John, and some of the other disciples were out on the water and had been fishing all night with nothing to show for it. As the sun began to appear on the horizon, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples didn’t know who he was. After Jesus inquired about their catch, he informed them that they would find fish on the other side of the boat. The tired fishermen oblige the stranger and their nets become so loaded with fish that they cannot haul it in.

John is the first to see the recognizable sign of an overabundance of fish. Jesus had a track record too. John nudges Peter and nods toward the shore and shares his revelation: “It is the Lord.” Peter doesn’t hesitate and throws himself over the side of the boat. I can’t help but wonder if Peter was hoping that his past experience of water walking would hold true this time also.

After Jesus prepares breakfast and the meal is sitting heavy in the men’s stomachs, Jesus finally addresses Peter. Three times Jesus asks Peter if he loves him and then instructs him to care for his sheep. Jesus reinstates Peter and his future in God’s kingdom and cancels out his track record of denial and shame.

Jesus offers the same opportunity to us. No matter what our track record has been in the past, Jesus extends the opportunity to start a new way of life of faithfulness, obedience, trust, and service that will be a new normal. It’s not too late. Start a new record with Jesus!

Erin Jacobsma

 

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