When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”
“Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”
John 21:15
When Jesus was arrested and brought before the high priest, Peter denied that he knew Jesus (John 18:15-18, 25-27). Peter’s denial was so strong that it was a disavowal. Peter was saying that he had nothing to do with Jesus at all. No doubt Peter was confused, afraid for his own life, and not at his best that evening when he said things he would later wish he could take back.
Can you imagine how Peter felt seeing Jesus after the resurrection? I’m sure Peter rejoiced to see Jesus, but at the same time, Peter must have felt some shame for renouncing Christ. I’ve had some moments like that. I’ve felt the shame of failing, falling, and not standing close to Christ. But Peter’s story doesn’t end with his failure, and neither does yours. Jesus spoke with Peter, giving Peter the opportunity to recommit his loyalty to Christ. Even though Peter turned his back on Jesus, Jesus didn’t turn his back on Peter. Jesus isn’t giving up on you. His love will never let go of you. Right now, Jesus invites you to repent of your sins and believe in Him. Jesus invites you back into fellowship, relationship, and right standing with God. No matter what you’ve done wrong in the past, won’t you come back to Jesus?
Heavenly Father, convince us of Your endless love for us. Help us to hear Your heart calling for our return. Bring us to a place where we want a right relationship with You more than we want what is holding us back. We repent and we believe. We trust You and surrender our lives to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
