John 21:15
Hello Friend,
In John 21, we read the story of Jesus’ third appearance to the disciples after his resurrection. You will remember that this is the story of Jesus on the shoreline
cooking the disciples their breakfast while they fished. In this story, Jesus isn’t portrayed as some distant, unreachable king on a throne, but as a very human person who enjoys the company of his friends.
I love this chapter for its many profound messages. Jesusells the disciples who had caught no fish to “Go deeper.” And many sermons have been preached on the dialogue between Jesus and Peter with Jesus asking Peter, “Do you love me” and telling him “to feed my sheep.” This story is often used as a motivational tool to urge the faithful to servant ministry. But the often overlooked phrase that I love is Peter’s third response to Jesus in verse 17, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Peter had denied Jesus three times even though he said that he neverwould. I imagine Peter had tears in his eyes when he said, “Lord, yoknowall things.” You know I failed. In his heart he was pleading with Jesus, “You know all about me, surely you know I tried.”
I empathize with Peter. Have you ever stood before Jesus in prayer and pleaded,“Lord, I failed again. I’m trying to be your disciple; I love you”? And Jesus does know. He looks deep into your heart and knows your struggles. He knows you love him. And in spite of your flaws, He loves you deeply. I love my Jesus who understands me so well. Tell him today that you love him too.
Linda