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Daily devotional · April 11

Restored to Serve

“When they had finished eating, Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love Me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he answered, “You know I love You.” Jesus replied, “Feed My lambs.” Jesus asked a second time, “Simon son of John, do you love Me?” “Yes, Lord,” he answered, “You know I love You.” Jesus told him, “Shepherd My sheep.” Jesus asked a third time, “Simon son of John, do you love Me?” Peter was deeply hurt that Jesus had asked him a third time, “Do you love Me?” “Lord, You know all things,” he replied. “You know I love You.” Jesus said to him, “Feed My sheep. Truly, truly, I tell you, when you were young, you dressed yourself and walked where you wanted; but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. And after He had said this, He told him, “Follow Me.””
John 21:15-19 (BSB)Read the whole chapter →

Peter had denied Jesus three times, and now, on a beach after breakfast, Jesus asks him three times if he loves him. It is a gentle re-walking of the wound. Each time Peter answers honestly, and each time Jesus gives him a task: feed my lambs, care for my sheep. Failure did not disqualify him; it humbled him and made him ready. Jesus does not ask Peter to promise he will never fail again, only to love and follow. Many of us carry a failure that whispers we are finished. Today, take that memory to Jesus and let him speak the way he spoke to Peter. Then ask, what small act of care can I offer someone today? Serving from restored humility is one of the best ways to leave shame behind.

Prayer

Jesus, You know I love You. Restore me and give me someone to care for today. Amen.

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