“Feed My lambs… tend My sheep… follow Me.”
Because of fear of being jailed with his Master, Peter denied Jesus three times. Ironically, his denial was predicted by Jesus, himself, which made Peter felt really bad about what happened and “wept bitterly.” However, unlike Judas, Peter did not let those things ruin his life and his relationship with the Lord. He really regained enough composure. I believe the first thing he did was to pray alone to God and seek for forgiveness. And he was forgiven. In his heart, he knows.
After resurrection, Jesus gave him another chance. He asked Peter three times if he loves Him. And Peter responded three times “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Three denials totally wiped out by three assurance of love. Three denials totally wiped out by total forgiveness from the Lord. Moreover, he even directed Peter to be the leader of His flock – “feed My lambs, tend My sheep, follow Me.”
Going back now to my own life, how many times have I denied the Lord? Peter denied him only three times; I denied him many more than that! But again and again, He in turn ask me, “do you love Me?” How many times will I have to say, "I love you" to overcome my countless denials of Christ? I denied Him and yet the Lord instead has called me to his side, to serve and to teach, bringing the Word to those who are where I was, and who have surpassed where I am even now.
When we learn to follow Jesus, we will be able to feed the lambs, tend the sheep, and feed the sheep. Jesus commissioned Peter to do these things, but he has also commissioned us. Let us be willing to follow Christ and so fulfill the calling he has placed on our lives. Love Him. Follow Him.
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your mercy. I love You and will follow You. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres.
“You can see God from anywhere if your mind is set to love and obey Him” – Aiden Wilson Tozer (Pastor, Author)
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