When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love You.” He said to him, “Feed My lambs.”
John 21:15 (ESV)
When we are too proud of ourselves or of what we can accomplish, we become arrogant. Our language changes, our way of thinking about others changes, even our behavior changes. We always think we can impress others and can do anything. Peter, the impulsive one, often found himself in this situation where he believed he could protect Jesus, take first place, and even defend Him at the risk of his life.
Jesus’ arrest completely stripped him of all pride and arrogance. A few days before Jesus’ arrest, he boasted of his devotion to Him, telling Him that he would never betray Him. At the crucial moment when he had to prove his devotion, he failed miserably. He certainly took courage in knowing that he was not the only one running away, but he was the only one who denied Jesus three times, without the slightest hesitation. On the night of his arrest, just minutes before the soldiers arrived, Jesus prophesied to Peter what was about to happen when he said, “What, could ye not watch with me one hour?”
Did Peter’s failure mark the end of the intimate relationship between him and Jesus? Certainly not, because Jesus renewed his love and trust in him to care for his flock, the church. Three times, Jesus asked Peter if he loved him. When he answered, Jesus confirmed his restoration: “Feed my lambs.” How many times have you failed to demonstrate your love for God by giving up on Him to please others or gain someone’s favor? Know that the situation of Peter and the other 10 disciples is proof that God will never abandon you. He will always find a way to restore you and use you for His glory.
May the grace and peace of God be with you all.
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